lens Falls Hospital has been designated as a New York State Stroke Center by the state Department of Health.
As a stroke center, the hospital will improve the standard of quality and access to care for patients with a presumptive diagnosis of stroke, officials said.
The Stroke Center at Glens Falls Hospital, led by physicians and nurses with specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of stroke, has established protocols to ensure a rapid response to patients who could potentially be suffering from a stroke or stroke symptoms.
“We have been working on becoming a Stroke Center of Excellence for years,” said Dr. Richard Jackson, Glens Falls neurology. “We are pleased the state has recognized all of our hard work and desire to improve stroke treatment in our community.”
The hospital offers immediate, enhanced brain imaging and evaluation for patients who present to the Emergency Department and could be suffering from a stroke or stroke symptoms. Using the latest treatments, the stroke team can assess the patient and ensure that they receive the appropriate, individualized care.
Officials said the stroke center also offers a variety of interdisciplinary services to support the patient and their family during the acute stroke phase. These include diagnostic tests (CT, MRI, echo, carotid studies, EEG), outpatient rehabilitation services, smoking cessation programs, stroke support groups, and a community outreach program.
Glens Falls Hospital’s physician practice, Glens Falls Neurology, is conveniently located on the main hospital campus, which allows for access to follow-up stroke care.
The Stroke Center at Glens Falls Hospital is also now included within all local EMS protocols, which state that patients suffering from potential stroke or neurological symptoms must be brought to the nearest designated stroke center, officials said.