Norwegian American Hospital announced that they have been awarded Primary Stroke Certification from the Healthcare Facilities Accreditation Program (HFAP). The certification serves as a notice to the public and emergency medical services that Norwegian American Hospital has the capacity to stabilize, diagnosis and treat acute stroke patients, provide acute care, administer medications quickly, and provide rehabilitation therapies safely and efficiently.

“By earning Primary Stroke Certification, our commitment to delivering immediate emergency care to our patients in stroke-related situations has been recognized. When strokes occur, every second that passes increases the risk of permanent brain damage and loss of function, and that’s why Norwegian American Hospital makes it a priority to provide exceptional stroke care,” said José R. Sánchez, president and CEO, Norwegian American Hospital.

“This certification is just one example of the high quality of care delivered by our expert team of physicians, nurses and clinical staff. It lets our community know we have the resources and commitment to provide the best possible stroke care,” says Dr. Abha Agrawal, COO/CMO at Norwegian American Hospital.

HFAP has been certifying stroke centers since 2006. HFAP stroke certification differs from other certification programs in that it provides a three-year certification award with a mid-cycle review at 18 months. In addition, for reimbursement eligibility, hospitals must submit quarterly clinical performance measures to the HFAP office and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.