Kona Community Hospital nationally recognized for quality stroke care : Big Island Now
Kona Community Hospital received national recognition for its commitment to providing high-quality, evidence-based stroke care close to home.
The South Kona facility, part of the West Hawai‘i Region of Hawai‘i Health Systems Corporation, was awarded two American Heart Association Get With The Guidelines achievement awards for following up-to-date, research-based guidelines for the treatment of stroke, ultimately leading to more lives saved, shorter recovery times and fewer readmissions to the hospital.
Kona Community Hospital, or KCH, saw about 155 stroke cases through its Emergency Department in the past year, with approximately 75% of those originating in the community before hospital arrival, underscoring the importance of the guidelines to improve outcomes for patients in the long term, according to a news release from the hospital.
“Receiving this award reflects our commitment to our patients and our community,” shared Diane Hale, Chief Nurse Executive for the West Hawai‘i Region. “It affirms our dedication to improving patient outcomes by following the latest evidence-based treatment guidelines. Our next goal is to sustain this level of excellence and continue striving for the highest recognition possible, because that’s what our community deserves.”
“When we were submitting the data,” said Regina Leon, Director of Critical Care at KCH, “we were just focused on doing our best to elevate care and outcomes for our patients. But actually receiving this recognition validates the effort we’ve put into this. This was a team approach and is only made possible when we all work together.”
Hospitals in the Get With The Guidelines program adhere to the latest, research-based standards that improve survival, minimize disability, and accelerate recovery. Leon explained that the Association’s evidence-based guidelines are crucial for improving patient outcomes after stroke.
“When strokes occur in the community, patients may experience loss of motor skills, like the ability to walk or having slurred speech,” Leon said. “The guidelines help us deliver care that gives patients the best chance at regaining mobility and independence in recovery.”
These national recognitions highlight the hospital’s commitment to clinical excellence in stroke care, particularly in a rural community where timely intervention can mean the difference between long-term disability and recovery.
Steven Messe, volunteer chair of the American Heart Association Stroke System of Care Advisory Group, said the organization is happy to recognize KCH and its commitment to caring for patients with stroke.
“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,” Messe said.