PARKSTON, SD (Mitchell Now) — The American Heart Association has recognized 24 South Dakota facilities, including one in Parkston, for their effective care for stroke victims.
The AHA says the Mission: Lifeline Stroke initiative grades hospitals and clinics on how well they implement best practices for rehabilitation and prevention therapies following an acute stroke. The organization touts the model as one that improves recovery and reduces secondary complications.
The framework tests the facilities on everything from program management to caregiver education and support, care coordination, and clinical management. The AHA offers awards for merely participating in the initiative, achievement, and consistent excellence.
Avera St. Benedict Health Center in Parkston was awarded a certificate of achievement, meaning the administration has committed to establishing a stroke-specific rehab program, educating all staff members about strokes and proper care, and implementing all guidelines now, plus those to be released in the future.
Avera Prince of Peace in Sioux Falls was given the certificate of excellence, meaning it can show success in the program over a period of multiple years.