South Dakota § 34-12-52 - Definition of terms related to trauma care system.

Full text of South Dakota South Dakota Codified Laws § 34-12-52 — Definition of terms related to trauma care system., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 34-12-52. Definition of terms related to trauma care system.

Terms used in this section and §§ 34-12-53 to 34-12-55, inclusive, mean:

(1)    "Department," the Department of Health;

(2)    "Emergency medical services," health care provided to the patient at the scene, during transportation to a medical facility, between medical facilities, and upon entry at the medical facility;

(3)    "Trauma," a sudden, severe injury or damage to the body caused by an external force that results in potentially life-threatening injuries or that could result in the following disabilities:

(a)    Impairment of cognitive or mental abilities;

(b)    Impairment of physical functioning; or

(c)    Disturbance of behavioral or emotional functioning;

(4)    "Trauma care system," a statewide system for the prevention of trauma and the provision of optimal medical care to trauma victims that includes both the provision of appropriate health care services and provision of emergency medical care, equipment, and personnel for effective and coordinated prehospital, hospital, inter-hospital, and rehabilitative care for trauma patients;

(5)    "Trauma hospital," a hospital designated by the department as providing a specialized program in trauma care with appropriately trained personnel, equipment, and other facility resources that are specifically organized to provide optimal care to a trauma patient at the facility; and

(6)    "Trauma registry," patient-specific trauma data that is maintained by a health care facility, in a format prescribed by rules promulgated pursuant to § 34-12-54.

Source: SL 2008, ch 168, § 1; SL 2017, ch 150, § 3; SL 2022, ch 103, § 3.

Source: official South Dakota text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About South Dakota § 34-12-52

What does South Dakota Codified Laws § 34-12-52 cover?

Section 34-12-52 ("Definition of terms related to trauma care system.") is part of the South Dakota Codified Laws, the codified statutory law of South Dakota. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite South Dakota § 34-12-52?

A common citation format is "South Dakota Codified Laws § 34-12-52" (South Dakota). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of South Dakota law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the South Dakota official source linked on this page or consult a licensed South Dakota attorney.

How does South Dakota § 34-12-52 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in South Dakota can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in South Dakota.