WRMC Receives Comprehensive Stroke Center Certification

Wellington Regional Medical Center has been named a Comprehensive Stroke Center by DNV, reflecting the highest level of accreditation for treatment of serious stroke events.

“With stroke care, you must have the best clinicians and resources, but also the ability to act with extreme efficiency because of the time-critical nature of these events,” WRMC CEO Pam Tahan said. “This certification is an indication of the hospital’s commitment to ensuring the health, safety and outcomes of our patients who might be experiencing stroke symptoms.”

The DNV Comprehensive Stroke Center Certification is based on standards set forth by the Brain Attack Coalition and the American Stroke Association. It affirms that Wellington Regional addresses the full spectrum of stroke care — diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation and education — and establishes clear metrics to evaluate outcomes.

A Comprehensive Stroke Center can typically treat any kind of stroke or stroke complication and has a team ready to rapidly provide care. It is estimated that 1.9 million neurons can die per minute when a stroke is left untreated. That is 32,000 brain cells per second. Speed is the key to effective stroke treatment since cells and tissue lost during a stroke do not recover.

“Wellington Regional cares for stroke patients with a team approach,” WRMC Emergency Department Director Dr. Adam Bromberg said. “It begins with the EMS team notifying the hospital of a possible stroke patient, so our multidisciplinary stroke team can assemble and be ready from the moment the patient enters the ER. Working collaboratively allows our medical team to be prepared for any circumstance and react rapidly to provide appropriate care for the patient. The faster we can begin appropriate treatment, the better the outcome for stroke patients.”

This certification shows the hospital’s unique ability to provide stroke care.

“Achieving certification shows commitment to excellence,” said Patrick Horine, president of DNV Healthcare USA Inc. “It helps demonstrate to your community that you are performing at the highest level.”

To learn more about Wellington Regional Medical Center, visit www.wellingtonregional.com.