Portsmouth Regional Hospital Awarded Advanced Certification for Stroke Treatment from the Joint Commission

Stroke is the fourth leading cause of death in the United States. Recognizing the signs of stroke and receiving early and effective treatments can greatly improve the chance of recovery for those individuals who have experienced a stroke. Here on the Seacoast, Portsmouth Regional Hospital has recently received stroke certification in stroke treatment that ultimately benefits residents that experience a stroke event.

Portsmouth Regional Hospital is thoroughly committed to providing our patients the highest quality stroke care centered on current scientific research to ensure continued improvement in treatment,” said Tracey Collins, MSN, CNRN, Stroke Program coordinator. “In addition to our accreditation with the Joint Commission, the Primary Stroke Center Certification has given us the opportunity to highlight the exceptional stroke care we provide for our patients, and helped us improve care overall for our community.”

“In achieving Joint Commission advanced certification, Portsmouth Regional Hospital has demonstrated its commitment to the highest level of care for its stroke patients,” says Jean Range, MS, RN, CPHQ, executive director, Disease-Specific Care Certification, The Joint Commission commends Portsmouth Regional Hospital for successfully undertaking this challenge to evaluate its standard of care and instill confidence in the community it serves.”

Portsmouth Regional Hospital underwent a rigorous on-site review on January 28, 2013. A Joint Commission expert reviewed compliance with the requirements for the Joint Commission’s Disease-Specific Care Certification program as well as primary stroke center requirements such as collecting Joint Commission core measure data and using if for performance improvement activities. Other requirements included an interdisciplinary commitment to evidence-based practice, community and patient education and annual education of key personnel.