The University of Iowa Department of Surgery is nationally recognized for excellence across multiple specialized areas of care. 

As both a Level I Trauma Center and Pediatric Trauma Center, we provide comprehensive, high-level care for critically injured patients across the region. Our Burn Treatment Center—verified by the American Burn Association and the American College of Surgeons—is the only one in Iowa and treats more than 800 patients each year.

Our Bariatric Surgery Center delivers consistently strong clinical outcomes, while our Breast Health Center is accredited by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers. Together, these programs reflect our commitment to delivering advanced, high-quality care to every patient we serve.

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Level I Trauma Center

University of Iowa Health Care continues to be verified as both a Level I Trauma Center and a Level I Pediatric Trauma Center—recognition of the highest level of care for critically injured patients.

This designation reflects our team’s commitment to delivering comprehensive, coordinated and timely care. Verified trauma centers meet rigorous national standards for clinical capability, performance and continuous improvement, ensuring the best possible outcomes for the patients we serve.

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Verified Burn Treatment Center

Following a rigorous review process, the American College of Surgeons and the American Burn Association—two leading national organizations—have verified the UI Hospitals & Clinics Burn Treatment Center for high-quality burn care. This designation makes it the only verified burn center in Iowa, a distinction it has held since 2006.

UI Health Care is one of only 40 to 45 burn centers in the United States verified by both organizations. Each year, the center treats more than 800 adult and pediatric burn and trauma patients.

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Bariatric Surgery Center

UI Obesity Surgery is an internationally recognized program with multiple designations that reflect its strong clinical outcomes and comprehensive approach to bariatric care.

These distinctions highlight the team’s commitment to delivering safe, effective treatment and supporting patients throughout every stage of their surgical journey.

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Breast Health Center

The UI Health Care Breast Health Center is accredited by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers, reflecting a commitment to comprehensive, high-quality care.

This accreditation recognizes adherence to nationally established standards for breast care.