Harris Regional Hospital awarded Acute Stroke Ready Hospital Certification from The Joint Commission

Harris Regional Hospital has earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® and the American Stroke Association’s Heart-Check mark for Acute Stroke Ready Hospital Certification (ASRH).

Harris Regional Hospital underwent a rigorous onsite review on June 24, 2024. During the visit, a Joint Commission reviewer evaluated compliance with related certification standards including program structure and management, sustainability, and continued process improvement to ensure delivery of clinical care based on current clinical practice guidelines. Joint Commission standards are developed in consultation with healthcare experts and providers, measurement experts, and patients. The reviewer also conducted onsite observations and interviews.

“Earning stroke certification is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our clinical team, our community partners and The Joint Commission, who have been working collaboratively to ensure our hospital is prepared to provide high-quality care to patients when a stroke occurs,” said Ashley Hindman, CEO. “Our hospital’s top priority is to provide quality healthcare close to home, and this accomplishment demonstrates one of the many ways we continually work to enhance and elevate our services, advancing our mission of making communities healthier.”

Patients reporting to an Acute Stroke Ready Hospital can expect a high standard of care for stroke treatment. ASRH hospitals are equipped to quickly identify and manage stroke symptoms, providing immediate evaluation and intervention. Patients experiencing stroke symptoms will receive rapid assessment using advanced imaging and diagnostic tools, ensuring that treatment begins within the critical window to minimize damage. Care teams are trained in the latest stroke protocols and best practices. Continuous monitoring and a coordinated approach ensure that patients receive timely clot-dissolving medications or other necessary treatments, followed by care that supports recovery and reduces the risk of future strokes.

“Acute Stroke Ready Hospital Certification recognizes healthcare organizations committed to striving for excellence and fostering continuous improvement in patient safety and quality of care,” says Ken Grubbs, DNP, MBA, RN, executive vice president of Accreditation and Certification Operations and chief nursing officer of The Joint Commission. “We commend Harris Regional Hospital for using The Joint Commission certification process to reduce variation in clinical processes and to strengthen its clinical program to drive safer, higher quality and more compassionate care for individuals served.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, every 40 seconds, someone has a stroke in the United States. When a stroke occurs, every minute matters. Harris Regional Hospital provides 24/7 emergency care close to home, including higher levels of stroke care as a Joint Commission Acute Stroke Ready Hospital.

Harris Regional Hospital is also recognized for excellence by the American College of Cardiology (ACC) as an Accredited Chest Pain Center. As such, Harris Regional demonstrates expertise and commitment to a higher standard of care for emergency cardiac services, continual quality improvement in heart care, and community education and resources to help keep hearts healthy.

To learn more about the hospital’s services and commitment to emergency care for patients in western North Carolina, visit MyHarrisRegional.com.