Mount Nittany Health is proud to announce that it has been honored with the American Heart Association’s 2024 Get With The Guidelines® Stroke Award. The health system has earned distinctions on the Stroke Honor Roll Elite and Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll, showcasing its dedication to providing the highest standard of care for patients experiencing stroke and managing diabetes.

The Get With The Guidelines® initiative is a national effort that aims to improve the outcomes of patients affected by stroke and cardiovascular disease by promoting consistent adherence to the latest scientific treatment guidelines. These awards reflect Mount Nittany Health’s focus on delivering life-saving treatments promptly, enhancing recovery, and reducing the likelihood of recurring events.

“Receiving these prestigious awards is a testament to our team’s commitment to excellence in patient care,” said Dr. Pete Roy, Mount Nittany Health Neurology. “Our goal is to ensure that every patient we treat receives the best care possible, especially when time is critical, such as during a stroke. These recognitions affirm that we are making significant strides in improving health outcomes for our community.”

The Stroke Honor Roll Elite recognition is awarded to hospitals that meet stringent criteria for stroke care, including administering life-saving clot-busting medication within critical time frames. Achieving Honor Roll Elite status reflects Mount Nittany Health’s ability to meet or exceed established benchmarks for timely and effective stroke intervention, significantly improving patient survival and recovery.

“We are incredibly pleased to recognize Mount Nittany Health for its commitment to caring for patients with stroke,” said Steven Messe, M.D., volunteer chairperson of the American Heart Association Stroke System of Care Advisory Group and professor of neurology and director of fellowships of neurology at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. “Participation in Get With The Guidelines is associated with improved patient outcomes, fewer readmissions and lower mortality rates – a win for health care systems, families and communities.”

Mount Nittany Health was also recognized on the Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll for its efforts in managing cardiovascular and stroke risks in patients with type 2 diabetes. This accolade aims to ensure patients with type 2 diabetes receive the most up-to-date, evidence-based care when hospitalized with cardiovascular disease or stroke.

“These awards highlight the dedication of our physicians, nurses, and healthcare professionals who work collaboratively to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients,” said Nina Kephart, MSN RN, Stroke & Sepsis Coordinator, Mount Nittany Health. “We remain committed to advancing the level of care we provide, with a focus on innovation, education, and patient-centered treatment.”

“Our team’s focus on timely and precise treatment is crucial to improving the outcomes of our patients,” said Jeffrey Elias, DO, FACEP, Emergency Medicine. “This honor underscores our ongoing commitment to providing high-quality, compassionate care to our community.”

Mount Nittany Health’s stroke program has led to measurable improvements in stroke care delivery and patient outcomes, reinforcing the organization’s standing as a leader in regional healthcare excellence.