The Miriam Hospital receives Primary Stroke Center certification for fifth consecutive year

LifespanSep 16 2014

Marks fifth consecutive time The Miriam Hospital has received this certificate of distinction

The Miriam Hospital has for the fifth time been designated by the Joint Commission as a Primary Stroke Center. The advanced certification recognizes The Miriam Hospital Stroke Center, which cares for over 650 patients a year, as providing the highest quality stroke care.

"Meeting the rigorous standards established by the Joint Commission demonstrates The Miriam Hospital's commitment to providing our patients with outstanding stroke care," said Arthur J. Sampson, president of The Miriam Hospital. "Our Stroke Center team continually looks for ways to improve the care we provide and this recognition underscores our ability to outperform national standards in optimizing patient experience and satisfaction."

The Miriam Hospital's Stroke Center team provides around-the-clock coverage for stroke emergencies for the rapid diagnosis and treatment of stroke patients. This includes highly trained and competent physicians and nurses, the latest diagnostic equipment to accurately detect stroke and complications, comprehensive neurologic assessment by a specialist in neurology, and minimally invasive care using the newest therapies, such as clot-dissolving medications, and the Penumbra device which removes blood clots to restore blood flow to the brain. Onsite rehabilitative services assist patients in regaining body function and coping with disabilities and with case management to ensure a smooth discharge transition.

The Miriam's recertification follows an onsite review that took place earlier this summer measuring the hospital's compliance with national standards, clinical guidelines and outcomes of care. Joint Commission experts also assessed The Miriam's performance in achieving its 2014 quality priorities: clinical quality and patient safety, patient experience, capacity management, workforce engagement and operational excellence.

"We are committed to providing our stroke patients with the highest level of care," said Thomas F. Tracy, Jr., M.D., chief medical officer and senior vice president of medical affairs at The Miriam Hospital. "We requested this independent evaluation to show our continued commitment to delivering health with care and our support for the hospital's expert stroke team who works tirelessly to deliver patients around-the-clock stroke care."