Another double distinction for WVU Healthcare

Recognized again for excellence in heart failure and stroke care

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – In order to constantly improve patient care, WVU Healthcare clinicians turn treatment guidelines into lifelines by following the latest scientific recommendations. In recognition of this commitment, WVU Hospitals has become one of a select number of the nation’s healthcare providers to receive the American Heart Association’s Get With the Guidelines Gold Plus certification for excellence in both stroke and heart failure treatment.

The Gold Plus designations for superb quality of care for stroke and heart failure patients gives WVU Hospitals the distinction of being the only hospital in West Virginia to receive honors in both areas. This is the third year in a row WVU Healthcare's Stroke Center has earned the Gold Plus certification.

“To receive such an award recognizing excellence in either heart failure or stroke care is a tremendous accomplishment,” Bruce McClymonds, president and CEO of WVU Hospitals, said. “To be recognized in both areas is a testament to the commitment to excellence our physicians, nurses and support staff all share. It’s a rare honor.”

Get With the Guidelines is a national, in-hospital quality campaign developed by the American Heart Association to improve heart failure and stroke patient care. By promoting the consistent use of the most up-to-date treatment standards, the program has been proven to significantly improve the quality of patient care in participating hospitals. Results noted include clear reductions in patient readmissions in the month following their hospital treatments.