Facilities Recognized for Excellence in Stroke Patient Care
In a groundbreaking initiative to enhance stroke patient care, 67 facilities across Iowa, Montana, Nebraska, and North Dakota have been acknowledged for their outstanding efforts in participating in the American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline Stroke post-acute care program. This recognition aims to elevate the quality of care provided to stroke patients, ultimately leading to improved outcomes and extended lives.
According to the American Heart Association’s 2023 statistical update, stroke remains a significant cause of long-term disability in the United States, with approximately 795,000 individuals experiencing a new or recurrent stroke each year. The participation of facilities in the post-acute care initiative plays a crucial role in supporting faster and more effective recovery from stroke by implementing standardized coordination and evidence-based care practices.
The importance of evidence-based rehabilitation and secondary prevention interventions cannot be overstated in enhancing recovery post-stroke and reducing the risk of secondary complications. However, variations in stroke rehabilitation expertise, care processes, and educational resources among post-acute care sites highlight the need for standardized quality standards.
The American Heart Association, a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting heart and brain health for all, has developed quality standards based on the Association’s 2016 Guidelines for Adult Stroke Rehabilitation and Recovery. These standards serve as a framework for facilities to enhance stroke care by focusing on program management, patient and caregiver education and support, care coordination, clinical management, and quality improvement.
Gary Myers, MS, National Director of Healthcare Quality Initiatives Quality, Outcomes, Research, and Analytics (QORA) for the American Heart Association, emphasized the benefits of participating in the program, stating, “When evidence-based processes are implemented at every phase of care, patients have the best chance for positive outcomes. This initiative not only benefits patients but also ensures that participating facilities adhere to essential best practices.”
Facilities enrolled in the post-acute care initiative receive a participation stipend and tailored quality improvement support to enhance stroke recovery, rehabilitation, and secondary prevention. By joining a learning collaborative, facilities can collaborate with stroke rehabilitation experts to develop tools, share best practices, and improve care coordination with other stakeholders involved in stroke care, including hospitals and outpatient providers.
Award-Winning Facilities in Iowa, Montana, Nebraska, and North Dakota
Recognition awards and certificates of achievement have been granted to facilities that have demonstrated a commitment to establishing stroke-specific rehabilitation programs, offering comprehensive stroke education to staff members, implementing evidence-based protocols and policies, and engaging in continuous quality improvement efforts. These facilities represent a standard of excellence in stroke patient care, setting a benchmark for others in the healthcare industry.
Notable Facilities Recognized for Excellence
Among the facilities awarded for their exceptional stroke patient care are:
– Gundersen Palmer Lutheran Hospital in West Union, Iowa
– Kahl Home in Davenport, Iowa
– Beartooth Billings Clinic in Red Lodge, Montana
– Roundup Memorial Healthcare in Roundup, Montana
– Bryan Medical Center in Lincoln, Nebraska
– Dunklau Gardens in Fremont, Nebraska
– Northwood Deaconess Health Center in Northwood, North Dakota
– PAM Rehabilitation Hospital of Fargo in Fargo, North Dakota
These facilities have gone above and beyond in providing high-quality stroke care, showcasing a dedication to improving patient outcomes and advancing stroke rehabilitation practices.
In conclusion, the recognition of facilities for excellence in stroke patient care highlights the significant strides being made in enhancing post-acute care for stroke survivors. Through standardized quality standards, evidence-based practices, and collaborative efforts, these facilities are paving the way for improved outcomes and a better quality of life for stroke patients. The American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline Stroke initiative continues to drive innovation and excellence in stroke care, ultimately leading to a healthier and more resilient community.
