La Porte Regional Health System’s stroke program awarded re-certification from The Joint Commission

Once again, La Porte Regional Health System (LRHS) earned the Gold Seal of Approval™ from The Joint Commission for Primary Stroke Centers.

The distinction came after The Joint Commission conducted an extensive on-site review on Oct. 26, where staff showed they met certain criteria on patient safety, stroke and smoking education and rehabilitations plans.

“We are thrilled with the news that The Joint Commission for Primary Stroke Centers recognizes our commitment to providing quality care to our patients and our community,” Anita Ivankovig, BSN, MSA, RN, vice president of patient care, said. “The re-certification demonstrates our stroke care program follows national standards and guidelines that can significantly improve outcomes for stroke patients.”

LRHS initially earned the two-year certification from The Joint Commission in October 2007.

Quality and Patient Safety Director Pauline Arnold said, “After two years since our initial certification, La Porte Regional Health System’s stroke program is stronger than before as we continually evaluate our processes and outcomes. Patients should know this re-certification validates our hard work and the evidence-based care we provide to stroke patients.”

According to the American Stroke Association, stroke is the third leading cause of death in the nation. In addition, stroke is the leading cause of serious, long-term disability. LRHS’s stroke program is led by a multi-disciplinary team of highly trained and qualified physicians and specialists who treat patients by following survival-enhancing protocols.

LRHS urges the public to call 911 immediately if they or someone they know experiences sudden:
   • Numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body
   • Confusion, trouble speaking or understanding
   • Trouble seeing in one or both eyes
   • Trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
   • Severe headache with no known cause

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