Rumford Hospital earns award for stroke care

The American Hospital Association has presented Rumford Hospital's Emergency Department with the national Get With the Guidelines' Rural Stroke Silver Award.

The distinction rewards Rumford for using the most up-to-date, evidence-based treatment guidelines to improve care and outcomes for patients recovering from strokes.

"I couldn't be prouder of the stroke team and the hard work it took to receive this award," said Merideth Alanskas, RN, who is the nurse leader at Rumford Hospital's ED. "Everything we do, we do to improve the lives of our families, friends and neighbors in our community who are affected by stroke, giving them the best possible chance of recovery and survival."

Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in Maine. Early detection and treatment are keys to improving survival and minimizing disability.

"The ED truly deserves this recognition," said Jenifer Madore, vice president of Nursing and Patient Services at Rumford Hospital. "These team members are committed every day to making a difference in the lives of their patients."

The stroke team from Central Maine Medical Center (CMMC), which is also part of Central Maine Healthcare, has earned recertification by The Joint Commission, a non-profit organization that accredits U.S. healthcare organizations and programs.

Pictured left to right: Merideth Alanskas, Michelle Carignan, Lauren Bradley, Haley Richard, Chelsea Noyes, Davita Briggs, and Karen Cole.