HCA Healthone Swedish Prepares for Wildfire Casualties Amidst California Crisis
ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — As wildfires continue to threaten lives and homes in California, the HCA Healthone Swedish Burn and Reconstructive Unit is poised to assist should the need arise. Recognized as one of only 75 facilities verified by the American Burn Association, the unit’s preparedness is bolstered by its affiliation with a level-one trauma center, enabling a highly skilled staff to handle a range of burn-related injuries.
Dr. Benson Pulikkottil, medical director of the unit, expressed a commitment to providing care for wildfire victims: “When we hear of these tragedies, we obviously want to lend a helping hand and provide whatever resources we can.” The burn unit actively participates in the Western Region Burn Disaster Team, coordinating with other facilities about patient capacity during disasters. “If we say we have open beds and there’s a need, patients will be flown to us,” Pulikkottil noted.
The burn unit is equipped not only for critical care and surgeries but also offers extensive support services, including mental health care. “Our goal is to help soften this blow and think about aesthetic principles… as well as providing mental health support to bridge the physical and mental realms,” he said.
While no patients related to the California fires have yet been received at HCA Healthone Swedish, the team stands ready to help if called upon. “It may be that we never have a patient come our way, but if it becomes overwhelming, we are happy to accept,” Dr. Pulikkottil concluded, affirming their excitement at the opportunity to alleviate suffering during such a tragic time.