TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WCTV) – Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare is now the only hospital in the region accredited by The Joint Commission as an Advanced Primary Stroke Center. <\/p>\n
The certification recognizes TMH\u2019s ability to meet national standards for moving quickly when it comes to stroke diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation. It also confirms the hospital is equipped to perform advanced stroke procedures, allowing more patients to receive lifesaving care close to home.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe accreditation is very difficult to obtain, keep, and manage, said endovascular neurosurgeon Narlin Beaty. \u201cIt\u2019s really important for our community to have an advanced stroke center. Without this technology and these services, when you have a stroke and you don\u2019t get timely care, you mortality and morbidity go way up.\u201d<\/p>\n
When it comes to strokes, the signs develop within a 3-hour window. Even a 15-minute delay in treatment can have life-altering consequences,according to the hospital stroke medical director, Dr. Shyamal Bir.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s a very important part of the community in this center to improve the outcome of the patients, particularly to reduce the mortality and disability,\u201d the director said.<\/p>\n
The hospital treats hundreds of stroke patients each year.<\/p>\n
TMH physicians urge the public to remember the acronym B.E. F.A.S.T. to recognize stroke symptoms:<\/p>\n
Balance issuesEyesight challengesFacial droopingArm\/leg weaknessSpeech difficultyTime, a reminder to seek help immediately.<\/p>\n
Hospital leaders say they plan to expand access to specialized care, helping ensure patients in surrounding counties won\u2019t have to travel far for advanced treatment.<\/p>\n
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