UH Ahuja Medical Center Wins Award For Stroke Care

BEACHWOOD, OH — University Hospitals Ahuja Medical Center has received the Stroke Gold Plus and Target Award from the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association.

“We are pleased to recognize University Hospitals for their commitment to stroke care,” said Dr. Lee H. Schwamm, national chairperson of the Quality Oversight Committee and Executive Vice Chair of Neurology, Director of Acute Stroke Services, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts. “Research has shown that hospitals adhering to clinical measures through the Get With The Guidelines quality improvement initiative can often see fewer readmissions and lower mortality rates.”

The award recognizes a hospital's commitment to ensuring stroke patients receive appropriate treatment based on nationally recognized guidelines and the latest medical science.

“We are dedicated to improving the quality of care for our stroke patients by implementing the American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines-Stroke initiative,” said Dr. Cathy Sila, Chair of the UH Department of Neurology and Director of the UH Comprehensive Stroke Center Director. “The tools and resources provided help us track and measure our success in meeting evidenced-based clinical guidelines developed to improve patient outcomes.”

To qualify for the award, medical centers must meet specific diagnosis and treatment measures for stroke patients over 24 consecutive months. Metrics include use of proper medication and stroke treatments, education provided to patients, care transition interventions and more.

Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in the U.S. and a leading cause of adult disability, according to the American Heart Association.