Boca Regional Hospital designated as comprehensive stroke center
BOCA RATON – Boca Raton Regional Hospital has earned the designation as a Comprehensive Stroke Center by the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA).
Boca Regional is now one of only 20 AHCA stroke centers in the state and one of only four in Palm Beach County to receive this designation.
A stroke, or “brain attack,” affects the arteries leading to and within the brain, disrupting blood flow. The stroke may be the result of a clot that develops in the brain (ischemic stroke) or a weakened blood vessel that ruptures and bleeds into the brain (hemorrhagic stroke
Studies show that hospitals designated as Comprehensive Stroke Centers offer patients the best chance for survival and return to normal life. Research shows that stroke victims receive better treatment and recover with fewer disabilities at such hospitals.
For instance, comprehensive stroke center recommendations require round-the-clock neurosurgical staff and the latest technology to swiftly and accurately diagnose and treat acute stroke victims on an emergency basis. They offer access to advanced neuroradiological imaging and therapeutic techniques, which provides the widest range of interventional options to stop and minimize potential damage from a stroke.
“When a stroke happens, timing is critical,” said Charles Posternack, MD, chief medical officer at Boca Regional. “Having a Comprehensive Stroke Center close by is extremely beneficial to this community. Our center is staffed with physicians, nurses and other healthcare professionals who are specially trained to treat stroke patients in the most effective and efficient manner possible.”
Boca Regional has a comprehensive system for rapid diagnosis and treatment of stroke patients admitted to the emergency department. This includes having a Stroke Team available around the clock to evaluate patients within 15 minutes of arrival and 24/7 capability to perform and interpret brain imaging scans and written guidelines for emergency treatment including administration of specialized medication therapy and advanced radiology interventions.
Stroke care also includes pre-hospital communications with EMS, coordination with other healthcare providers, ongoing community outreach and education as well as a robust performance improvement program.
The ACHA designation adds to Boca Regional’s burgeoning capabilities in the neurosciences. In January 2012, Boca Raton Regional Hospital received a $25 million grant from the Marcus Foundation to create the Marcus Neuroscience Institute on the Hospital’s main campus. The facility will serve as a new, state-of-the-art nexus of care for neurologic and neurosurgical patients and transform the landscape of clinical capabilities available in the region.
In August 2011, Boca Raton Regional Hospital received the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association’s Get With The Guidelines®–StrokeBronze Quality Achievement Award.
“We’re proud to achieve this important clinical designation,” said Jerry Fedele, President and Chief Executive Officer. “AHCA’s designation is yet another reflection of Boca Raton Regional Hospital’s commitment to providing outstanding care to our patients and our community.”
