Rutherford Regional Health System awarded Advanced Primary Stroke Center Certification from The Joint Commission

Rutherfordton, NC (September 2024) – Rutherford Regional Health System, a Duke LifePoint hospital, has earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval^® and the American Stroke Association’s Heart-Check mark for the Advanced Primary Stroke Center Certification.

Rutherford Regional Health System underwent a rigorous, on-site review on June 21, 2024. During the visit, a Joint Commission reviewer evaluated compliance with related certification standards, including program management, clinical practice guidelines, and evidence-based practice. Joint Commission standards are developed in consultation with health care experts and providers, measurement experts, and patients. The reviewers also conducted onsite observations and interviews.

“The Advanced Primary Stroke Center Certification recognizes healthcare organizations committed to striving for excellence and fostering continuous improvement in patient safety and quality of care,” says Ken Grubbs, DNP, MBA, RN, executive vice president of Accreditation and Certification Operations and chief nursing officer, The Joint Commission. “We commend Rutherford Regional Health System for using The Joint Commission certification process to reduce variation in clinical processes and to strengthen its clinical program to drive safer, higher quality, and more compassionate care for individuals served.”

“We congratulate Rutherford Regional Health System for this outstanding achievement,” says Nancy Brown, chief executive officer of the American Stroke Association. “This certification reflects its commitment to providing the highest quality of care for stroke patients.”

Being an Advanced Primary Stroke Center means that we make exceptional efforts to foster better outcomes for stroke care. If you experience stroke-like symptoms, time is of the essence, and Rutherford Regional is here and ready to care for you. “This accreditation is an assurance to our community that the quality of care we provide is effectively managed to meet the unique and specialized needs of stroke patients,” says Sue Shugart, chief executive officer at Rutherford Regional Health System.

If you or a loved one is experiencing the signs or symptoms of a heart attack or stroke, call 9-1-1 right away and go directly to the emergency room.

For more information, please visit The Joint Commission website.