FORT WORTH, Texas — Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Alliance has earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval^® and the American Heart Association’s Heart-Check mark for Advanced Primary Stroke Center Certification.

Designated by The Joint Commission and the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association, the prestigious certification demonstrates the hospital’s expertise in addressing the needs of and treating stroke patients quickly and efficiently.

“It’s truly an honor to earn such a significant certification, but the accolades don’t drive us to excel,” said Melissa Schilling, M.S.N., R.N., CEN, Trauma-Stroke Program manager for Texas Health Alliance. “A patient’s health and well-being are paramount, and following rigorous, clinical guidelines allows hospital employees and physicians on the medical staff to provide not just evidence-based care but consistent, quality care. When that’s the ultimate goal, we are doing what matters most to us and to our patients.”

With someone dying of stroke every 3 minutes and 30 seconds in the U.S., it comes as no surprise that stroke ranks No. 5 among all causes of death, according to the American Heart Association. In Texas, stroke happens to be the No. 6 leading cause of death, and with Texas Health Alliance addressing the needs of more than 50,000 patients each year, some will unfortunately become high-acuity stroke patients. “This certification simply confirms we are ready, willing and able to care for individuals when they arrive at our door,” said Clint Abernathy, president of Texas Health Alliance.

The recent certification recognizes Texas Health Resources’ commitment to providing high-acuity neurological services throughout North Texas.

“This certification reflects our commitment to offering individuals a robust neuroscience program that can connect them to necessary and immediate care, no matter their location,” said Kirk King, Texas Health’s executive vice president and hospital channel chief operating officer. “Whether you require emergency care or rehabilitation after a stroke, our facilities and the experienced, multidisciplinary team of caregivers working there are committed to helping you get back to enjoying life as quickly as possible.”

The certification also recognizes healthcare organizations that provide clinical programs for stroke patients and evaluates how organizations use clinical outcomes and performance measures to identify opportunities to improve care, as well as to educate and prepare patients and their caregivers for discharge.

“When patients need continued care after a stroke, empowering resources, including comprehensive rehabilitation services, are available on the Texas Health Alliance campus,” Abernathy added. “That extended care is just one important component to our mission and helps us establish a lifelong connection with our community.”

Established in 2003, the Advanced Primary Stroke Center Certification is awarded every two years to Joint Commission-accredited acute care hospitals. The prestigious designation is based on the recommendations for primary stroke centers published by the Brain Attack Coalition and the American Stroke Association’s statements and guidelines for stroke care.

Learn more about how Texas Health is advancing neurological care throughout North Texas.