The Joint Commission announced recently that Mercy Hospital Northwest Arkansas has earned certification as a Primary Stroke Center. The certification means Mercy Hospital can display The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval, a symbol of quality that reflects Mercy’s commitment to providing safe and effective patient care. Mercy has a stroke team on site 24 hours a day, augmented by support from vStroke, Mercy’s virtual stroke program.
Mercy Hospital underwent a rigorous onsite review June 12. During the visit, a team of Joint Commission reviewers evaluated compliance with related certification standards, including program management and delivering and facilitating clinical care. Joint Commission standards are developed in consultation with healthcare experts and providers, measurement experts, and patients. The reviewers also conducted onsite observations and interviews.
”Achieving Primary Stroke Center status speaks to the dedication of Mercy Hospital’s stroke team and their commitment to providing consistently excellent response to stroke,” said Eric Pianalto, president of Mercy Hospital. “I’m so proud of this team and all of the co-workers who support stroke care for addressing this important healthcare need in our community.”
Primary Stroke Center Certification recognizes healthcare organizations committed to fostering continuous quality improvement in patient safety and quality of care, said Mark Pelletier, chief operating officer for Accreditation and Certification Operations and chief nursing executive, The Joint Commission.
“We commend Mercy Hospital Northwest Arkansas for using certification to reduce variation in its clinical processes and to strengthen its program structure and management framework for stroke patients,” he said.
In addition, The Joint Commission announced that Mercy Bella Vista, a multispecialty facility with a 24-hour Emergency Department, is certified as an Acute Stroke Ready Hospital. The certification signifies the clinic’s expertise in diagnosing and treating stroke.