LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The Burn Center at UofL Hospital became Kentucky’s first verified burn center after receiving official verification from the American Burn Association. UofL Health announced the news Tuesday, saying the new mark of distinction “further validates the high-quality patient care provided to burn patients from their time of injury through rehabilitation.”

“Every Kentuckian deserves quality care during their moments of need, which is why I have made health care a top priority as governor,” said Gov. Andy Beshear (D). “This is the first verified burn center in Kentucky, and I know it will better serve our people and help them get the care they deserve.”

“The incredibly hard-working men and women of UofL Health do so much to keep our community healthy and this certification is not only well-earned but a real testament to the care they provide and the professionalism with which they provide it,” said Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg (D).

In a statement, UofL Hospital said its commitment to burn patients and burn prevention dates back nearly 40 years.

The multi-disciplinary team’s expertise includes specialized care for chemical, electrical, flame/thermal and scald burns, as well as complex wounds and skin conditions.

Verification of the Burn Center follows a rigorous review that included an in-depth site visit by members of the ABA Verification Committee and senior ABA members. A written report was then reviewed by the entire ABA Verification Committee and by the American College of Surgeons’ Committee on Trauma.

“Burns remain a leading cause of injury in the U.S. and Kentucky,” said Matthew Bozeman, medical director for the Burn Center. “No two burns are alike. They vary in degree, depth and the area impacted. That’s why a team specialized in the complex care is so important.”

The Burn Center includes a state-of-the-art 16-bed unit equipped with individual temperature and humidity controls and heat lamps, essential for customizing the climate for burn patients.

The specially trained burn team includes nurses and physicians, along with rehabilitation specialists in speech, physical and occupational therapy.

The team also has support from the social services, psychiatry and nutrition departments, as well as the hospital chaplaincy.

The Burn Center serves a regional area with patients coming from across Kentucky, Indiana and Illinois. In 2022, the Burn Center treated over 250 patients, had 1,150 outpatient visits and hosted many community prevention programs.