The University of Chicago has announced a new head for its adult trauma center. Surgeon and public health expert Dr. Selwyn Rogers will be leading the school's development in this area. In its official website, the University of Chicago confirmed that the Level 1 adult trauma center is scheduled to open by next year. Dr. Rogers joined the institution last Jan. 5.
Dr. Rogers will be the founding director of the University of Chicago Medicine Trauma Center. At the same time, he will also be the chief of the Section for Trauma & Acute Care Surgery.
He is tasked to build an interdisciplinary team of specialists. This team will be treating patients who have incurred injury from life-threatening events like car-related accidents, high-impact falls as well as gun violence.
In addition, Dr. Rogers and his team will work with city leaders, particularly with the trauma network. They will also work with other hospitals in the South Side area in order to improve trauma care. University of Chicago's executive vice president for medical affairs Kenneth S. Polonsky described Dr. Rogers as "highly qualified" for the position. He believes that the top surgeon will be able to lead his team to excellence and growth.
According to NBC Chicago, the university broke ground last September for the medical facility. It is said to cost $39 million dollars. The adult trauma center is situated on an existing parking structure, which helps with its speedy building. Patient care will be on the first floor as well as housing a ready ambulance.
Speaking to Chicago Sun Times, Dr. Rogers talked about how the University of Chicago has given him "a once in a lifetime opportunity" especially in the recent times of helplessness and hopelessness. He admitted that the things that were happening in Chicago prompted him to focus his attentions on treating and helping others deal with trauma.
