Mercy Health - St. Rita’s Medical Center announced it has been re-certified as a Comprehensive Stroke Center, reaffirming the hospital’s sustained commitment to the highest level of competence in the treatment of serious stroke events. The medical center has held this designation for the past three years.
“With stroke care, you must have the best clinicians and resources, as well as the ability to act with extreme efficiency because of the time‑critical nature of these events,” said Kayle Hahn, the Stroke Coordinator and Neuroscience service line manager for Mercy Health - Lima. “This re-certification from DNV validates not only the significant effort our teams have put into building an advanced stroke program, but also our ongoing commitment to maintaining the highest standards of care for our patients year after year.”
The DNV Comprehensive Stroke Center Certification is based on standards set forth by the Brain Attack Coalition and the American Stroke Association. The certification affirms the hospital addresses the full spectrum of stroke care – including diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and education – and establishes clear performance measures to evaluate patient outcomes.
“Achieving certification demonstrates a strong commitment to excellence,” said Kelly Proctor, President of DNV Healthcare USA Inc. “It also helps show your community that you are delivering care at the highest level.”
Comprehensive Stroke Centers are typically the largest and best‑equipped hospitals within a geographic area, capable of treating all types of stroke and stroke‑related complications. In a growing number of states, stroke center certification helps determine where patients are transported to receive the most appropriate and reimbursable level of care.
In recognition of Stroke Awareness Month, Mercy Health - St. Rita’s Medical Center is also encouraging community members to better understand stroke risk factors, warning signs, and the importance of seeking emergency care immediately at the first sign of symptoms. Early treatment can significantly improve outcomes and reduce long‑term disability.
Learn more about the stroke treatment and care we offer at Mercy Health by visiting mercy.com.