Columbus Regional Health has been recognized by the American Heart Association with the Gold Plus Get with the Guidelines – Stroke Quality Achievement award. The hospital received this recognition for its commitment to providing high quality stroke care and following nationally recognized, research-based treatment guidelines. According to the organization, “This high quality care ultimately leads to more lives saved and reduced disability.”
The Gold Plus designation is awarded to hospitals that achieve 85 percent or greater adherence on all safety, quality, and care measures for at least two consecutive years. Columbus Regional Health was also named to the Stroke Honor Roll Elite.
Stroke remains a major health concern in the United States as it is the fifth leading cause of death and a significant contributor to disability. A stroke occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is interrupted by a blockage or burst blood vessel, causing brain cells to die due to lack of oxygen and nutrients. Early detection and prompt treatment are critical for improving survival rates and reducing long-term effects.
The Get with the Guidelines program is an initiative from the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association designed to help hospitals across the country provide care that aligns with current research and evidence-based practices. The program encourages hospitals to consistently follow these guidelines, which can reduce long-term impacts from stroke or prevent death. As stated in the release, “Get with the Guidelines – Stroke is an in-hospital program for improving stroke care by promoting consistent adherence to these guidelines, which can minimize the long-term effects of a stroke and even prevent death.”
In addition, Columbus Regional Health earned a place on the American Heart Association’s Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll. This award highlights efforts to ensure that patients with Type 2 diabetes—who face increased risks when hospitalized due to stroke—receive up-to-date, evidence-based care.
