FROM LEFT, Lauren Doran, R.N., stroke program coordinator; Dr. John Taylor, stroke program director; and Dory Holmes, MPH, OTR/L, director of Rehabilitation Services, were instrumental in acquiring the advanced Primary Stroke Center certification at Mid Coast Hospital.
The certification demonstrates the hospital’s ability to provide the most appropriate, evidence-based stroke care a community hospital can offer its patients. Mid Coast is one of only four hospitals in Maine that has achieved this status.
According to a news release, Joint Commission surveyors visited Mid Coast Hospital in June to conduct a thorough on-site evaluation that included eight standard performance measures and an in-depth review of staff and program indicators. The nonprofit hospital received notification in early July that it is now certified as an advanced primary stroke center.
Strokes are the fourth leading cause of death and the number one cause of long-term disability in the United States. Survival and successful recovery of a stroke is greatly improved if symptoms are recognized quickly and immediate medical attention is given. The sooner a stroke patient receives treatment, the more likely they will avoid long-term damage.
“The Joint Commission advanced certification demonstrates Mid Coast Hospital’s commitment to providing our patients with the highest quality stroke care, close to home,” said Deb MacLeod, vice president of Nursing and Patient Care Services. “Mid-coast residents should feel comforted in knowing that we have elevated our standards and increased access to stroke care for the entire community.”
The Mid Coast team includes four on-staff neurologists that treat a full range of neurological conditions. Dr. John Taylor heads the stroke program which is now capable of delivering the most advanced level of care for stroke patients, including new protocols and technologies that accelerate their ability to respond.
Among the hospital’s new services for stroke patients is the “telestroke” system that serves to augment the availability of a staff neurologist, providing immediate off-site evaluation when needed. This program is offered through a joint partnership with Maine Medical Center, another of Maine’s Primary Stroke Centers.
MacLeod added, “Mid Coast Hospital remains focused on providing Mid-coast residents with education and resources to help reduce their risk of stroke, supporting our vision to improve the overall health and well-being of our community.”
According to the American Stroke Association, risk factors for stroke include being overweight or obese, high blood pressure, smoking, and having other health conditions like diabetes, carotid artery disease, or high cholesterol.
For resources to help, visit www.midcoasthealth.com/he althline.
¦ JOINT COMMISSION surveyors visited Mid Coast Hospital in June to conduct a thorough on-site evaluation that included eight standard performance measures and an indepth review of staff and program indicators.
¦ THE NONPROFIT HOSPITAL received notification in early July that it is now certified as an advanced primary stroke center.
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