Texas Health Fort Worth Sets the Standard for Exceptional Stroke Care
In an impressive achievement, Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Fort Worth has once again been awarded the prestigious Gold Seal of Approval® from the Joint Commission, along with the American Heart Association’s Heart-Check mark for Advanced Certification as a Comprehensive Stroke Center. This marks the fourth consecutive time the hospital has received this esteemed recognition.
Back in 2019, Texas Health Fort Worth made history by becoming the first facility in the city to obtain this national certification, which is a testament to the high caliber of neurological care provided to stroke patients not only in North Texas but also in surrounding areas. "For over five years, our hospital has been at the forefront, caring for the largest number of stroke patients in North Texas," stated Jared Shelton, FACHE, President of Texas Health Fort Worth. "We take great pride in being chosen by patients and their families during their most critical moments. Our mission goes beyond just treatment; we are dedicated to enhancing their quality of life and equipping them with essential resources. This commitment is a top priority for us."
The stroke program at Texas Health Fort Worth is designed to offer patients the best possible care, featuring access to specialized physicians and state-of-the-art technology for diagnosing and treating strokes. The hospital boasts a dedicated neurosurgical intensive care unit, various educational and support programs, a Brain Injury Transitional Services program, advanced imaging systems capable of detecting clots deep within the brain, and even virtual stroke care options. Stroke is notably the fourth leading cause of death in Texas, with alarming rates of stroke occurrence particularly prevalent in Dallas and Tarrant counties.
"Achieving and maintaining certification from the Joint Commission reflects Texas Health Fort Worth's unwavering dedication to excellence, but it's much more than just receiving accolades," emphasized Dr. Vinit Mehrotra, a neurologist on the hospital's medical staff and the medical director of its stroke program. "Regardless of whether a patient presents with mild or severe stroke symptoms, our focus remains steadfast on delivering high-quality treatment, education, and rehabilitation, no matter their ZIP code." Notably, Texas Health Fort Worth stands out as the only Advanced Comprehensive Stroke Center in Tarrant County recognized by the Joint Commission and is among fewer than 50 certified comprehensive stroke facilities across the entire state of Texas.
This two-year certification encompasses a wide range of stroke care services, including diagnosis, education, rehabilitation, and treatment. To qualify for this designation, hospitals must adhere to specific stroke-related standards as a Primary Stroke Center while fulfilling additional criteria related to advanced imaging capabilities, providing round-the-clock access to specialized treatments, and employing staff with the requisite education and skills to manage complex stroke cases effectively.
Joint Commission collaborated with the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association to create comprehensive, evidence-based stroke certifications that establish the highest national benchmarks for safe, top-quality stroke care.
**Source: Statistical information provided by Texas Health Care Information Collection.
