GMC Stroke program earns Joint Commission certification

Geisinger Medical Center (GMC) has officially been named a Certified Primary Stroke Center by the Joint Commission (JC) after completing a rigorous certification process. This designation adds GMC to a list of only 21 other JC Primary Certified Stroke Sites in Pennsylvania.

Achieving this certification demonstrates that we are dedicated to continuously providing safe, high-quality treatment and services to our stroke patients, said Robert A. Felberg, MD, who recently joined GMCs neurology department as the director of the stroke program. Our participation in the certification process also helps us identify opportunities for improvement and allows us to continue our leadership role in stroke care delivery.

Geisingers stroke team has partnered with several other departments within the Medical Center, including the ED, Critical Care, Nursing and Radiology to develop and employ guidelines of treatment, which help to integrate care and provide comprehensive treatment to patients who have suffered from a stroke.

The outcome of the initial survey was very encouraging, said Mona Baran, RN, Stroke Nurse Coordinator, Geisinger Medical Center. The JC found that we were operating well above the required 85 percent compliance rate for each of the four methods of care delivery measured.

I am excited about joining an organization that is obviously committed to excellence and has been recognized for that commitment, said Dr. Felberg. As a specialist in stroke treatment for my entire career, it excites me to be a part of a program with such high standards. I look forward to continuing this rich tradition of quality.