Providence Alaska Medical Center Earns Comprehensive Stroke Center Certification
Photo Credit: Freedomtumz | Envato
Already the hospital most frequently visited by Alaskans suffering from strokes, Providence Alaska Medical Center (PAMC) in March received certification as a comprehensive stroke center, reflecting the highest level of stroke care.
Comprehensive Stroke Care
PAMC treats more patients for stroke than any other hospital in Alaska and was formerly certified by DNV as a Primary Stroke Center. DNV is an international accredited registrar that provides certification and standards-compliance services. The Comprehensive Stroke Center Certification is based on standards set forth by the Brain Attack Coalition and the American Stroke Association and affirms that PAMC addresses the full spectrum of stroke care—diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation and education—and establishes clear metrics to evaluate outcomes.
“Earning the Comprehensive Stroke Center Certification validates all the hard work our caregivers and physician partners have devoted to ensuring our patients receive the best, most efficient care before, during, and after a stroke occurs,” says Sarah Skeel, chief administrative officer of PAMC. “It’s an honor to be recognized for our commitment to saving the lives of Alaskans.”
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The PAMC stroke program now involves a multidisciplinary stroke committee, including the stroke program team, physicians, virtual health leaders, executives, nurse leaders, and bedside caregivers. Over the last several years, leadership and care teams worked to expand capabilities and outreach, while collaborating with partners throughout the state, including the Alaska Stroke Coalition. PAMC also developed opportunities for continuing education and research on stroke care.
“Achieving certification shows commitment to excellence,” says Kelly Proctor, president of DNV Healthcare. “And it helps demonstrate to your community that you are performing at the highest level.”
Comprehensive stroke centers are, like PAMC in Anchorage, typically the largest and best-equipped hospitals in a given geographical area that can treat any kind of stroke or stroke complication. In a growing number of states, stroke center certification determines which facility a patient should be taken to for the most appropriate, comprehensive spectrum of care.
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