CHICAGO, July 23 Did you know that stroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States? Or that almost every 45 seconds in the U.S., a person experiences a stroke?
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When it comes to acute stroke care, every minute counts. That's why we're proud to announce that The Joint Commission granted all seven (7) Resurrection Health Care (RHC) acute care hospitals the Gold Seal of Approval(TM) for Advanced Disease-Specific Certification as Primary Stroke Centers. RHC was awarded these distinctions after the Joint Commission conducted daylong on-site reviews of each RHC acute care stroke program in May.
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"Resurrection demonstrated that its stroke care programs follow national standards and guidelines that can significantly improve outcomes for stroke patients," said Jean E. Range, M.D., R.N., C.P.H.Q., Executive Director, Disease-Specific Care Certification, Joint Commission.
Now, a patient anywhere in the Chicagoland area with stroke signs and symptoms can be assessed and treated efficiently and effectively at any RHC hospital - with the same proven, evidence-based medical practices in stroke care.
"We're proud to achieve this distinction," said Anita Halvorsen, System Director, Neuroscience Service Line, Resurrection Health Care. "Joint Commission Primary Stroke Center Certification recognizes our commitment to providing outstanding care to our patients and communities."
With the high occurrence of stroke and the need for urgent treatment, it is important for communities to have access to certified Primary Stroke Centers that offer stroke-focused physician assessments, necessary testing and the most advanced treatments, including clot-busting medications.
Just ask Graciela Cerda, 76, from Woodale, IL, who credits Resurrection with saving her life. While sharing lunch with her daughter, she experienced a stroke. One moment she was enjoying conversation, the next moment she had a blank stare, and was unable to speak, follow command or move her right arm and leg. Within 10 minutes of her first symptom, the fire department brought her to Westlake Hospital because of the new stroke certification and she is now on her way to recovery. Read her story.
Resurrection is committed to educating the community about the warning signs of a stroke and the need to call 911 immediately if they or their family member is experiencing difficulty walking, talking, reaching, seeing or a sudden headache. Visit the stroke section of the RHC website for valuable resources on this important topic.
Resurrection Health Care is a family of health care services providing advanced medical care and exceptional customer service with compassion and hope. Our hospitals, nursing homes, retirement communities, home health services, behavioral health programs and other services are conveniently located in many Chicagoland neighborhoods. Resurrection Health Care is a not-for-profit Catholic organization sponsored by the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth and the Sisters of the Resurrection.
The Joint Commission's Primary Stroke Center Certification is based on the recommendations for primary stroke centers published by the Brain Attack Coalition and the American Stroke Association's statements/guidelines for stroke care. The Joint Commission launched the program--the nation's first--in 2003. A list of programs certified by the Joint Commission is available at www.jointcommission.org.
SOURCE Resurrection Health Care
