The Stroke Program in the Neuroscience Center of Excellence recently participated in an on-site review conducted by JCAHO, resulting in the program receiving certification. This Certificate of Distinction signifies that the Stroke Program has met or surpassed the standards and criteria defined by the Brain Attack Coalition and adopted by JCAHO for recognition as a Primary Stroke Center. "This certification sets us apart as a leader in stroke care in the CSRA and in the country," says Carol Pardue, RN Clinical Nurse Specialist for the GHSU Stroke Program.
Certification took more than the involvement of those working directly in the Stroke Program. Bill Hamilton, Administrative Director of the Neuroscience Center states, "Giving credit to one or two departments for this certification would be shortsighted in that stroke patient care involves the collaboration of every discipline and touches every area of the hospital. The review process was extremely thorough and detailed, which is a testament to the true depth and breadth of the Stroke Program."" Dr. David Hess, Chair of the Department of Neurology agrees. "This was a hospital-wide effort and we had terrific support from everyone; Nursing, Rehabilitation including PT, OT, and Speech, Dietary/Nutrition, Radiology, and the Emergency Department to name just a few. The surveyor was very impressed with GHSU."
Additionally, the GHSU stroke program is helping JCAHO validate the existing standards for certification by submitting data for every adult stroke patient. This information explains how GHSU handles each case and helps JCAHO continually improve the existing standards for certification. The validation process takes one year to complete and GHSU is one of only approximately 30 hospitals nationwide asked to participate.
Certification as a Primary Stroke Center provides stroke patients with the assurance that they will receive the best care possible. Carol adds, "It gives us the stamp of approval from JCAHO, which is renowned for its promotion of quality in health care across the nation."
GHSU Neuroscience Center Vision Statement: To treat and cure neurological and behavioral health disorders in a learning environment.