BANGOR – Eastern Maine Medical Center has been designated as the state’s first Level II trauma center after completing a verification process with a national medical organization.

Maine Emergency Medical Services announced the distinction Monday morning during a press conference at the Bangor hospital.

Level II certification requires a 24-hour commitment by a medical staff dedicated to trauma services, clinical resources, critical care transport and consultation with community hospitals.

The hospital was designated by the American College of Surgeons, a national organization dedicated to improving patient care.

EMMC is one of eight Level II facilities in New England and 90 in the country.

In a lengthy onsite review and personal interview procedure, the ACS analyzed patient records and quality improvement efforts in terms of trauma care. EMMC met or exceeded the group’s criteria.

Maine Medical Center in Portland and Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston, the two other facilities within the Maine Trauma System, will undergo the re-designation process within the next several months.