This May, Mid Coast Hospital joins with the American Stroke Association to recognize Stroke Awareness Month and help spread awareness about stroke, having been recognized as one of only five hospitals in Maine to have achieved Advanced Certification for Primary Stroke Centers by The Joint Commission. The certification indicates that the team at Mid Coast Hospital is prepared to provide high-level stroke care.
“Not only during Stroke Awareness Month, but year-round, Mid Coast Hospital encourages as many people as possible to learn the risk factors associated with stroke, recognize the warning signs and symptoms, and dial 9-1-1 immediately upon the first sign of a stroke. With these practices, we might begin to reduce the devastating effects of stroke on our population,” said John Taylor, DO, a Neurologist with Mid Coast Medical Group–Neurology and Medical Director of Mid Coast Hospital’s stroke program.
According to the American Stroke Association, stroke is the number 5 cause of death and a leading cause of disability in the United States. Even though 80% of strokes are preventable, projections show that by 2030, an additional 3.4 million U.S adults 18 and older will have had a stroke.
Determining warning signs and symptoms of stroke is easy when F.A.S.T. is implemented. This acronym stands for Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, and Time to call 9-1-1. Beyond these, additional stroke warning signs and symptoms include sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body; sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding; sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes; sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination; and sudden severe headache with no known cause.
“Treatment is available to certain people that could help minimize the severity and disability associated with stroke when treated very quickly. Calling 9-1-1 for stroke symptoms is the most important first step to take,” said Dr. Taylor. “I am proud to be a part of a hospital that is recognized for excellence in stroke care and providing high-level care for stroke patients to ensure the best possible outcomes.”
Mid Coast Hospital’s comprehensive, patient-centered program is a coordinated effort that includes local Emergency Medical Services, the Mid Coast Hospital Emergency Department, Hospitalists, Mid Coast Medical Group practices such as Neurology, Cardiology, Primary Care, and Rehabilitation specialists throughout the Mid Coast–Parkview Health system, as well as ongoing support groups offered to the patient and family of stoke.
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