Stroke Care
Primary Stroke Center Certification
United Regional is proud to have achieved the distinction as a Joint Commission Primary Stroke Center Certification. The Joint Commission’s Certificate of Distinction for Primary Stroke Centers recognizes centers that make exceptional efforts to foster better outcomes for stroke care. Achievement of certification signifies that the services we provide have the critical elements to achieve long-term success in improving outcomes. It is the best signal to our community that the quality care we provide is effectively managed to meet the unique and specialized needs of stroke patients. United Regional serves as the hub of the area’s Stroke Network.
Stroke Program
United Regional’s Stroke Program was developed to increase public awareness of stroke, its risk factors and warning signs. Stroke is one of the leading causes of death in the United States and of adult disability, but most people do not even know they are at risk. Many do not understand the prevalence of the disease or understand what the risk factors are for stroke.
In addition to a broad educational campaign, United Regional focuses on clinical efforts to reduce the time it takes to diagnose a stroke and be more aggressive in treating stroke.
Know the warning signs of a stroke
Just like a heart attack, a stroke is an emergency. Seeking immediate medical attention after stroke symptom onset is critical, in order to restore blood flow and reduce the number of brain cells lost. The warning signs for stroke are:
- Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body
- Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding
- Sudden loss of balance or coordination
- Sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes
- Sudden severe headache with no known cause
Do not ignore warning signs. If you experience any of these symptoms, call 9-1-1.