ARLINGTON, Texas — Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital has once again earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval^® and the American Heart Association’s Heart-Check mark for Acute Heart Attack Ready Certification.

“This is such an honor to be recognized again for our efforts and represents our commitment to improving the health and well-being of all our cardiac patients,” said Ronnie Belz, R.N., chest pain quality coordinator at Texas Health Arlington Memorial.

Joint Commission reviewers evaluated compliance with related certification standards developed in consultation with health care experts and providers, measurement experts and patients.

This certification is awarded to hospitals that demonstrate the ability to provide advanced care, treatment and services for patients who experience heart attacks, acute coronary syndrome and cardiogenic shock. This includes care in the hospital and after discharge through cardiac rehabilitation.

“We hope the community continues to rely on Texas Health, from the physicians on our medical staff and nurses to other caregivers to help treat, manage and possibly prevent a severe heart attack,” Belz said.

Heart disease is still the leading cause of death for men, women, and people of most racial and ethnic groups in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Every year, about 805,000 people in the U.S.have a heart attack, which is why Texas Health Resources is committed to meeting the needs of North Texans where they live.

Texas Health facilities in Arlington, Fort Worth, Southwest Fort Worth and Plano have earned recognition from The Joint Commission and been certified as Primary Heart Attack Centers. Last year, Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas became the first facility in Texas to earn The Joint Commission’s Comprehensive Heart Attack Center Certification.

For more information, please visit The Joint Commission website.