Since 2008, Chester County Hospital has been recognized as a Primary Stroke Center by The Joint Commission since 2008. This elite certification is evidence of Chester County Hospital's success in implementing the highest Joint Commission standards required to provide complex stroke care, according to nationally accepted standards and recommendations. The Joint Commission has recognized that Chester County Hospital's stroke services, treatments, care and community outreach are among the best in the nation, providing the highest standards in evidence-based practice to support prevention and recovery after a stroke.
Stroke management begins in the pre-hospital setting. Emergency Services responders provide rapid assessment and transport for individuals with stroke symptoms. Pre-arrival notification to the Emergency Department assures that rapid assessment and treatment continues. Emergency Department, Radiology and Pharmacy staff members are mobilized to prioritize testing and initiate treatment within 60 minutes of arrival to the Emergency Department for patients who might benefit from the administration of tPA, a "clot busting" intravenous medication. Care is continued in our Stroke Unit with physicians, nursing staff, case managers and social workers who have expertise in understanding stroke, providing stroke education to patients and families, and in assuring that stroke care continues after hospital discharge.
For patients with a particularly complex stroke, Chester County Hospital is pleased to offer consultative services through the use of interactive video, audio, and telecommunications technology ('telemedicine") with Neurologists at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania.
Stroke is an emergency. If you or a loved one experiences signs or symptoms of stroke, remember F.A.S.T.:
F = Face Drooping
A = Arm Weakness
S = Speech Difficulty
T = Time to call 9-1-1