Stroke is the nations third leading cause of death. On average, someone suffers a stroke every 45 seconds; and someone dies of a stroke every 3.1 minutes. Stroke is a leading cause of serious, long-term disability in the United States, with about 4.7 million stroke survivors alive today.

"Were proud to have achieved this national distinction," said HRMC President & CEO Gene C. Milton, FACHE. "Joint Commission Primary Stroke Center Certification recognizes Hackettstown Regional Medical Centers commitment to providing outstanding emergency and rehabilitation care to our patients and our community."

HRMCs Stroke coordinator Karen Young, RN, emphasizes, "Stroke is one of the most preventable of all life-threatening health problems, provided that you pay proper attention to lifestyle and medical risk factors, such as smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes. Furthermore, treatment exists to help minimize the effects of a stroke; however, it must be given within 3 hours of the first symptom. It is important to recognize the symptoms of stroke and seek emergency medical attention. Recognizing stroke symptoms can be easy if you learn to act F.A.S.T. After the initial assessment, the patient will receive ongoing follow-up care by one of HRMCs on-staff consultant neurologists."

The Joint Commission launched the program the nations first in 2003. For more information about HRMCs Stroke Program, please call Karen Young, RN at (908) 441-1127.