Norwegian American Hospital awarded primary stroke certification

Norwegian American Hospital (NAH) was recently awarded a Primary Stroke Certification by Healthcare Facilities Accreditation Program (HFAP).

“When strokes occur, every second that passes increases the risk of permanent brain damage and loss of function, and that’s why Norwegian American Hospital makes it a priority to provide exceptional stroke care," said José R. Sánchez, NAH's President and CEO. “By earning Primary Stroke Certification, our commitment to delivering immediate emergency care to our patients in stroke-related situations has been recognized.” 

The award certifies that NAH has the capability to stabilize, diagnosis and treat acute stroke patients, provide acute care, administer medications quickly, and provide rehabilitation therapies safely and efficiently.

HFAP has been certifying stroke centers since 2006. Their stroke certification differs from other certification programs in that it provides a three-year certification award with a mid-cycle review at 18 months. In addition, for reimbursement eligibility, hospitals must submit quarterly clinical performance measures to the HFAP office and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.