PULLMAN, WA – Pullman Regional Hospital has been recognized by the American Heart Association (AHA) for its outstanding performance in stroke and heart emergency care, earning three Silver Achievement Awards in the first year of its participation in the AHA’s Get With the Guidelines quality improvement program.
The awards, presented in the categories of Heart Failure, Stroke, and Coronary Artery Disease care, mark the highest distinction achievable in a hospital’s first year of participation. Pullman Regional was also honored with the AHA’s Commitment to Quality Award, given to hospitals that excel in three or more Get With the Guidelines programs. It is one of just 158 sites nationwide to meet this benchmark.
Hospital leaders attribute the recognition to a strong focus on meeting high clinical benchmarks for speed, accuracy, and safety in patient care. “This is especially important for stroke and heart-related events when time means brain or heart damage,” said Verna Yockey, Director of the Intensive Care and Medical-Surgical Unit.
Emergency Department Director Stephanie Knewbow noted that recent performance data has surpassed national goals, including consistent stroke patient transfer times under 90 minutes and the administration of TNKase for acute ischemic stroke treatment in as little as 38 minutes — well ahead of the 45-minute target.
Chief Nursing Officer Tammy Needham emphasized the staff’s commitment, stating, “Our teams choose to participate in these quality improvement programs. It really speaks to their leadership and dedication to being the best place to receive care.”
The recognition follows Pullman Regional Hospital’s 2022 Acute Stroke Ready Certification from DNV, an international healthcare accreditation organization. This certification requires hospitals to meet or exceed evidence-based standards set by the AHA, the American Stroke Association, and the Brain Attack Coalition.