The stroke program at Georgia Health Sciences Health System was recently recertified as a Primary Stroke Center by the Joint Commission. The program was the first in the CSRA to obtain certification in 2005. To date, approximately 32 medical facilities in the state have earned this certification.
The Joint Commission conducted a comprehensive onsite evaluation and recognized the program for taking exceptional steps to foster better outcomes for stroke care.
"The Joint Commission bases its biennial review on the stringent standards of the Brain Attack Coalition and the American Stroke Association. The process is thorough and detailed," said Dr. David Hess, Chief of Neurology. “The recertification of our program demonstrates our continued commitment to excellence in providing stroke management as well as continuous improvements in care.”
A stroke, or "brain attack," occurs when a blood clot or damaged blood vessel interrupt blood flow to the brain, killing blood cells and potentially causing brain damage. Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States, killing about 137,000 people each year, and a leading cause of serious, long-term adult disability.