3-Year Designation recognizes preparedness to deliver high-quality stroke care
(FERGUS FALLS, MN) The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) has announced that Lake Region Healthcare (LRH) joins 95 hospitals recognized for their preparedness to evaluate, stabilize and provide emergency treatment to patients with acute stroke symptoms.
The Acute Stroke Ready Hospital designation followed a review by the Minnesota Stroke System Review Committee and recognizes LRH for their stroke protocols, especially the systems that have been established around activating a stroke alert and the specific actions of each of the stroke team members, as well as the time goals established. Additionally, the review committee was impressed with the LRH commitment to education through multiple opportunities for review, hands-on skills at mixing of Alteplase, and mock stroke codes.
“The Stroke Ready designation is important for our community because it helps emergency responders get patients to the help they need as quickly as possible,” said LRH CEO Larry Schulz. “
Nearly one in three Minnesota stroke victims first receive care at a small, rural hospital. In addition, more than one-third of Minnesotans live more than 60 minutes away from a Primary Stroke Center. These facts highlight the importance of local hospitals becoming designated as stroke-ready facilities.
"When it comes to stroke, time lost is brain lost," said MDH Commissioner of Health Dr. Ed Ehlinger. "That is why it is so crucial that all Minnesota hospitals are ready to deliver high-quality stroke care close to home."
May is Stroke Awareness Month and LRH is emphasizing the importance of community awareness around stroke symptoms and appropriate response. “It is important for Minnesotans to know how to spot a stroke quickly and call 9-1-1. You can recognize the signs and symptoms of a stroke by remembering F.A.S.T. F – facial droop/numbness, A – arm weakness, S – speech difficulty, and T – time to call 9-1-1,” Schulz added.
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About Lake Region Healthcare
Lake Region Healthcare is living out its vision to be Minnesota's preeminent regional healthcare partner. With over 80 Medical Staff and over 900 employees, its team is dedicated to serving its patients and community with integrity, teamwork, compassion and excellence. For more information about Lake Region Healthcare, visit www.lrhc.org.
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