FirstHealth of the Carolinas Inc.

11/29/2021 | News release | Distributed by Public on 11/29/2021 11:28

FirstHealth Hospitals Receive DNV Stroke Center Certifications

PINEHURST - FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital (MRH) has received certification as a Primary Stroke Center from DNV, affirming the hospital's readiness to treat a full range of stroke-related medical problems.

FirstHealth Montgomery Memorial Hospital, MRH - Richmond and MRH - Hoke each received certification as an Acute Stroke Ready Center, given to hospitals that serve rural communities with patients who are not able to reach a larger hospital in time to receive stroke treatment.

"We are so proud of our campuses to receive this certification, which reflects the effort our staff put into this program to ensure the health and safety of our patients," said Cindy McDonald, MSN, R.N., CHE, CPHQ, vice president, quality. "With a combination of the right equipment, personnel and training to quickly assess and treat strokes, we have the resources to provide fast treatment and the best possible stroke care."

Quick assessment and treatment of strokes leads to better outcomes for patients. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that patients who arrive at the emergency room within three hours of their first symptoms often have less disability three months after a stroke than those who received delayed care.

According to the American Stroke Association, stroke is a leading cause of death, killing nearly 130,000 people each year. Stroke is also a leading cause of serious, long-term adult disability. Since stroke affects blood flow to the brain, rapid and effective treatment can save lives and limit long-term damage. DNV certifications account for hospitals' ability to effectively diagnose and treat stroke in time.

The DNV Primary Stroke Center Certification is based on standards set forth by the Brain Attack Coalition and the American Stroke Association. Certification is given to medical centers that address the full spectrum of stroke care - diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation and education - and establish clear metrics to evaluate outcomes.

Acute Stroke Ready (ASR) Center Certification is taken from evidence-based standards set by the Brain Attack Coalition and the American Stroke Association. ASR certification is given to hospitals that address the initial diagnosis and treatment and facilitate quick transfer to a specialized stroke center when needed.

"Achieving certification shows a commitment to excellence," said Patrick Horine, president of DNV Healthcare USA Inc. "It helps demonstrate that medical centers are providing the highest level of care they are designed to offer."

About DNV

DNV is a global independent certification, assurance and risk management provider, operating in more than 100 countries. Through its broad experience and deep expertise, DNV advances safety and sustainable performance, sets industry benchmarks, drives innovative solutions. Whether certifying a company's management system or products, accrediting hospitals, providing training, assessing supply chains or digital assets, DNV enables customers and stakeholders to make critical decisions with confidence, continually improve and realize long-term strategic goals sustainably. For more information about DNV, visit www.dnvcert.com/healthcare