SWMC Receives Stroke Readiness Designation

 Southwest Medical Center achieved special designation this month as an Emergent Stroke Ready Hospital (ESRH) from the Kansas State Stroke Task Force.

ESRH designation is awarded to hospitals who comply with criteria for diagnosis, treatment, and transportation of acute stroke patients in the state of Kansas. Southwest Medical Center joins 66 ESRH hospitals in the state as part of the Kansas Initiative for Stroke Survival (KISS) network.

Southwest Medical Center, which launched telemedicine services for stroke and neurology in January, has also implemented written emergent stroke care protocols, conducted stroke drills, provided comprehensive staff training, and began participation in the state’s stroke quality improvement program this year to attain this designation.

“SWMC is committed to providing excellent care for patients that present to the Emergency Department with stoke symptoms,” said Jandi Head, SWMC ER Nurse Manager and Stroke Coordinator.  “Meeting the quality standards required for the ESRH Designation and partnering with the stroke centers in our region translates into improved outcomes for our patients who are diagnosed with a stroke. We are so proud of our staff and physicians for their commitment to providing highest level of stroke care to our community.  Their teamwork and dedication to this project will save lives and improve outcomes of stroke patients by providing timely identification and treatment.”

Southwest Medical Center President and CEO, Bill Ermann, said stroke readiness continues to be an important component in serving the community.

“Stroke continues to be a leading cause of death in our county. We know that through community education and early intervention, we can help save the lives of stroke victims coming through our doors,” Ermann said. “Our focus is to serve the specific needs of our community, and our achievement in stroke readiness this year has been a reflection of our commitment to do what is best for our patients as we continue to keep quality healthcare close to home in Southwest Kansas.”

ESRH hospitals must annually attest to the Kansas State Stroke Task Force for continued compliance with designation criteria. More information about Emergent Stroke Ready Hospital designation is available at www.kissnetwork.us.