February 12, 2026- Intermountain Health Lutheran Hospital has launched a new program designed to expedite lifesaving care for patients suffering from some of the most catastrophic injuries in traumatic incidents. The new Direct-to-Operating Room (Direct-to-OR) initiative allows caregivers to take patients with penetrating injuries such as stabbings, shootings, or impalements directly from the ambulance bay or helipad to the operating room. This bypasses traditional emergency department processes when every minute counts.
This approach is part of Lutheran’s ongoing commitment to clinical excellence and patient-centered care. By streamlining the pathway for trauma patients, the program aims to reduce the time it takes to get into surgery, minimize complications and blood loss, and improve overall outcomes.