Dignity Health Glendale Memorial Hospital and Health Center earned primary stroke certification by The Joint Commission. The Primary Stroke Center Certification Program was developed in collaboration with the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association. In order to obtain certification, hospitals like Glendale Memorial must follow best practices for stroke care.

Glendale Memorial met specific criteria including a designated stroke unit, a 24/7 stroke acute team, and multiple ongoing education requirements. Additionally, the hospital meets eight core clinical performance measures specific to accurately diagnosing and treating stroke patients.

“We are delighted to receive our primary stroke certification from The Joint Commission as well as our EMS designation. Our goal is to continue offering compassionate care to patients and their families. Receiving this certification reflects our Dignity Health value of collaboration – as staff and physicians work closely together to ensure a rapid and safe response to anyone presenting with symptoms,” said Matthew Tenser, M.D. and Stroke Program medical director. “Additionally, the EMS designation will allow Glendale Memorial to receive stroke patients who arrive by emergency transport including the Glendale and Los Angeles Fire departments.”

As a result of Glendale Memorial’s EMS designation as an Approved Stroke Center, the hospital will be added to the ReddiNet® emergency medical communications network, which means Glendale and Los Angeles emergency medical responders can bring patients to our emergency department.

The stroke certification complements an already robust program – including a stroke support group, which offers resources and strategies for stroke survivors and their families to live active, satisfying lives. Additionally, the stroke support group helps survivors reduce the risk of recurrent stroke and build new confidence. The group meets on the second Tuesday of every month between 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. (Rehabilitation Conference Room, 3rd Floor).

Glendale Memorial Hospital is located at1420 S. Central Ave. in Glendale.