Fisher-Titus awarded Primary Stroke Certification

[Norwalk, Ohio] – Fisher-Titus Medical Center was awarded Primary Stroke Certification from the Healthcare Facilities Accreditation Program (HFAP), an independent, nationally recognized accreditation authority. It earned this distinction after HFAP conducted an extensive and objective review of the hospital’s stroke program.

“Fisher-Titus Medical Center has proven their dedication in achieving excellence in stroke care” said Michael Zarski, CEO of HFAP. “Stroke is the third leading cause of death in America and the leading cause of adult disability.  Providing patients who have suffered a stroke with a continuum of care that is prompt and effective, can have a positive effect on the quality of their lives in the future.”

“We’re proud to achieve this prestigious distinction,” said Fisher-Titus President Patrick J. Martin. “By awarding us Primary Stroke Certification, HFAP has recognized our commitment to providing outstanding stroke care to our patients and our community. In fact, quality is consistently the priority focus in our strategic plans and goals.”

Fisher-Titus Medical Center has been a Primary Stroke Center through The Joint Commission since 2007, but chose to continue its certification through Healthcare Facilities Accreditation Program.

The Medical Center’s highly skilled stroke team includes physicians, nurses, respiratory therapists, radiology technicians, rehabilitation specialists, case managers, quality managers and education coordinators. Since December 2005, specialized stroke training was initiated throughout the hospital for employees. Radiologist technicians were trained in performing CT scans of the brain so that they can be performed at any time day or night.

In addition, a rapid response team was developed to respond quickly to patients with stroke symptoms so they can be evaluated and treated with the most current evidence-based medical treatment. In addition, the team also has focused on community education about signs and symptoms of stroke, treating stroke symptoms as a medical emergency and the importance of calling 911.

The HFAP stroke certification program has based its standards on evidence from the Brain Attack Coalition and the American Heart/Stroke Association.  These standards are requirements to provide hospitals with the tools for education and support regarding stroke prevention, care and recovery within their communities.