SAN ANTONIO — CHRISTUS Health announced that its Westover Hills hospital has received a Level III trauma designation, making it the first hospital on San Antonio’s west side equipped to provide advanced trauma care at that level.

Following a rigorous survey process, the Texas Department of State Health Services designated CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Hospital – Westover Hills as a Level III trauma center. The designation affirms the hospital’s ability to deliver prompt assessment, resuscitation, surgery and intensive care for injured patients.

The hospital maintains 24-hour immediate coverage by emergency medicine physicians and ensures the availability of a specialized team of care providers. Officials say this advancement expands access to comprehensive trauma care for residents in west Bexar County and surrounding communities.

“This designation confirms our ability to respond to a broad range of trauma-related injuries,” said Tilly Richard-Gard, regional director of trauma services for CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Health System. “Rather than requiring patients to be transported to distant medical centers, this advancement allows us to deliver timely, emergent trauma care closer to home, improving access, continuity of care and outcomes for our community.”

According to the Texas Health and Human Services website, only 61 hospitals statewide hold an advanced Level III trauma designation.

Dr. Michael Corneille, trauma medical director for CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Health System, said the milestone reflects a coordinated effort across departments.

“I’m incredibly proud of our team,” Corneille said. “Patients will now have faster access to critical care, improved outcomes and enhanced EMS coordination. Achieving this designation is part of our ongoing commitment to provide comprehensive and complex care to the communities we serve.”

With the new designation in place, CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Hospital – Westover Hills now stands as the most advanced trauma facility on San Antonio’s west side, strengthening emergency care capacity in one of the city’s fastest-growing areas.