San Juan Regional Health

San Juan Regional Medical Center is proud to announce that it has received certification from DNV GL - Healthcare as a Primary Stroke Center, affirming the hospital’s readiness to handle a full range of stroke-related medical problems. 

“This is our third re-certification, and a team approach has assisted with our rapid triage and rapid treatment process resulting in excellent recovery.  We are honored to continue providing focused, personalized healthcare to this specialized population,” said Tina Biberdorf, Stroke Coordinator.

The DNV GL - Healthcare Primary Stroke Center Certification is based on standards set by the Brain Attack Coalition and the American Stroke Association, and affirms that San Juan Regional Medical Center addresses the full spectrum of stroke care – diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation and education – and establishes clear metrics to evaluate outcomes. 

 “This certification shows our community that we have the resources and commitment to provide the best possible stroke care,” said Jeff Bourgeois, President and CEO of San Juan Regional Medical Center. “It’s a combination of the right equipment, personnel and training to quickly assess and treat strokes. Achieving certification validates all the effort we have put into this program and to ensuring the health and safety of our patients.” 

According to the National Stroke Association, stroke is a leading cause of death, taking nearly 130,000 lives each year, and is a leading cause of serious, long-term, preventable adult disability. Because stroke or “brain attack” effects blood flow to the brain, rapid and effective treatment can save lives and provide the best chance of limiting the extent of long-term irreversible damage. 

At San Juan Regional Medical Center, when a patient arrives at the emergency room and a stroke is suspected, a “stroke alert” is called. This notifies all of the appropriate departments within the hospital and prioritizes the patient’s emergent needs so intervention can happen as soon as possible. 

Another important element of Primary Stroke Center Certification is education and community outreach. It is essential for everyone in the community to recognize the warning signs of stroke. Early detection leads to rapid intervention, which increases the chances of a full recovery. Time is brain and every minute counts, so remember BE FAST.