Cook County Honors World-Renowned Trauma Center, Nation’s First, on its 50th Anniversary

CHICAGO – Pioneers, angels, lifelong friends -- just a few of the words used by grateful patients and Cook County leaders to describe the 50-year legacy of the Cook County Trauma Unit. A special program was held September 9 at John H. Stroger Jr. Hospital to reflect on the extraordinary contributions of one the nation’s most distinguished trauma units. Founded in 1966 at Cook County Hospital, the trauma unit was the first comprehensive trauma unit established in the U.S., providing prevention and pre-hospital services, critical care and surgery, rehabilitation and extensive follow-up care.  Today, the Cook County Trauma Unit is one of the busiest in the nation. “The Cook County Trauma Unit is a national leader in the field, saving lives when time matters most. I am proud Cook County has led the way for the rapid extension of trauma centers around the country and the development of best practices in treating traumatic injury patients,” said Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle.