Apollo Hospital in Hyderabad and Aster Hospital in Calicut have achieved a milestone in Indian healthcare by becoming the first hospitals to be certified as Comprehensive Stroke Centers by the American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association.
Stroke represents a critical health challenge in India, ranking as the fourth leading cause of death and fifth leading cause of disability. The new certifications aim to establish a coordinated, high-quality system of stroke care that can potentially save lives and reduce long-term disability.
To obtain the certification, these hospitals demonstrated rigorous standards including advanced imaging capabilities, 24/7 specialized treatment availability, active research participation, and specialized staff training. The certification process involves thorough evaluation by Association surveyors who assess whether hospitals meet or exceed required standards.
D.P. Suresh, M.D., a volunteer member of the American Heart Association’s International Committee, emphasized the importance of science-based methods in stroke assessment, diagnosis, and treatment. By implementing these standards, hospitals can improve patient outcomes and reduce the overall impact of stroke.
Currently, two stroke certification classifications exist in India: Comprehensive Stroke Centers and Primary Stroke Centers. While Comprehensive Stroke Centers must meet extensive requirements for complex stroke patient care, Primary Stroke Centers focus on acute ischemic stroke treatment and have specific transfer protocols.
The certification is part of a broader initiative by the American Heart Association to improve healthcare standards globally. In addition to stroke certifications, the organization is also piloting a Comprehensive Chest Pain certification program.
These developments represent a significant step forward in Indian healthcare, potentially setting new benchmarks for stroke care and patient treatment across the country.
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