ATTLEBORO, MA – Sturdy Health has received a nationally recognized quality achievement award for its stroke care from the American Heart Association.
The health system received the highest level of recognition – “Gold Plus” – from the association’s Get With The Guidelines program this week, which ensures stroke patients receive treatment according to nationally recognized, research-based guidelines.
“Our goal is to deliver exceptional stroke care every day, and this award is a reflection of the dedication of our team to making that happen,” said Chief Medical & Quality Officer Dr. Brian Patel. “Following the latest guidelines helps our patients recover faster and, hopefully, live longer.”
Each year, program participants qualify for the award by demonstrating how their organization has committed to providing quality care for stroke patients. In addition to following treatment guidelines, Get With The Guidelines participants also educate patients to help them manage their health and recovery at home.
“We are incredibly pleased to recognize Sturdy Health for its commitment to caring for patients with stroke,” said Dr. Steven Messe, volunteer chair of the American Heart Association Stroke System of Care Advisory Group. “Participation in Get With The Guidelines is associated with improved patient outcomes, fewer readmissions, and lower mortality rates — a win for health care systems, families and communities.”
Stroke is the fifth-leading cause of death in the United States and a leading cause of disability. A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or bursts.
Sturdy was also named to the association’s honor roll for its treatment of Type 2 diabetes and for meeting criteria to reduce the time between a patient’s arrival and treatment with thrombolytic therapy.