MOBILE, Ala. -- Twelve hospitals in seven south Alabama counties on Monday became part of a statewide trauma system that directs emergency workers to the center most ready to treat victims.

Dr. Donald Williamson, health officer for the Alabama Department of Public Health, met with emergency workers and hospital staff in Mobile to discuss program details.

"The system will ensure that patients who are injured will go to the right hospital the first time," Williamson said. "We think this has real potential to improve outcomes."

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