Marshall Health Network encourages stroke awareness, offers nationally recognized stroke care

During Stroke Awareness Month in May, Marshall Health Network (MHN) encourages the community to know the warning signs of stroke and seek immediate medical attention when every second counts. 

The B.E. F.A.S.T. acronym represents stroke warning signs: Balance issues, Eyes changes, Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty and Time to call 911. 

Stroke remains the fifth-leading cause of death in the United States and a leading cause of long-term disability. Because treatment is highly time-sensitive, rapid evaluation by a stroke specialist is essential to improving outcomes. 

MHN offers a comprehensive system of stroke care designed to deliver timely, expert treatment close to home. This includes an Advanced Primary Stroke Center at Cabell Huntington Hospital, a Regional Comprehensive Stroke Center at St. Mary's Medical Center, and expanded access to care through Marshall Health - Huntington and Marshall Health - Teays Valley. 

MHN hospitals have earned national recognition for their commitment to quality stroke care. Cabell Huntington Hospital has been named among America’s 100 Best Hospitals for Stroke Care for six consecutive years by Healthgrades and has received the American Heart Association Get With The Guidelines - Stroke Gold Plus Quality Achievement award for 10 consecutive years. 

St. Mary's Medical Center has earned the American Heart Association Get With The Guidelines - Stroke Gold Plus Quality Achievement Award for 15 consecutive years. Its Regional Comprehensive Stroke Center also achieved Comprehensive Stroke Certification through the Accreditation Commission for Health Care. 

“Our stroke care teams are ready with advanced technology and specialized expertise to diagnose, treat and support recovery when time matters most,” said Justin Nolte, M.D., the only fellowship-trained stroke neurologist in the Tri-State and medical director of MHN’s stroke care centers. “Time is brain, which is why acting quickly can make all the difference.” 

To learn more, visit marshallhealthnetwork.org/advanced-stroke-care.