(Coshocton, Ohio – Sept. 18, 2018) – The American College of Cardiology (ACC) has recognized Coshocton Regional Medical Center for its demonstrated expertise and commitment in treating patients with chest pain. The hospital was awarded Chest Pain Center Accreditation in August based on rigorous onsite evaluation of the staff’s ability to evaluate, diagnose and treat patients who may be experiencing a heart attack.
Hospitals that have earned ACC Chest Pain Center Accreditation have proven exceptional competency in treating patients with heart attack symptoms. They have streamlined their systems from admission to evaluation to diagnosis and treatment and all the way through to appropriate post-discharge care, with recommendations and assistance in patient lifestyle changes.
Hospitals receiving Chest Pain Center Accreditation from the ACC must take part in a multi-faceted clinical process that involves completing a current-state analysis and implementing care processes that meet or exceed national standards of care; undergoing a rigorous onsite review; and monitoring for sustained success. Improved methods and strategies of caring for patients include streamlining processes, implementing of guidelines and standards, and adopting best practices in the care of patients experiencing the signs and symptoms of a heart attack. Facilities that achieve accreditation through the work of an organized team of doctors, nurses, clinicians, EMS, and other administrative staff reflect a strong commitment to efforts that lead to better patient education and improved patient outcomes.
“Our Chest Pain Center Accreditation represents more than a year’s efforts in analyzing all aspects of chest pain care and the implementation of national standards that meet best practices for cardiac care,” said Stephanie D. Conn, Coshocton Regional Medical Center CEO. “Our accreditation verifies that we use the best methods and practices in heart care to ensure our patients receive the right care at the right time to minimize heart damage and begin the journey to healing.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 730,000 Americans suffer a heart attack each year. The most common symptom of a heart attack for both men and women is chest pain or discomfort. However, women are more likely to have atypical symptoms including, but not limited to, tingling or discomfort in one or both arms, back, shoulder, neck or jaw; shortness of breath; cold sweat; unexplained exhaustion; heartburn-like feeling; nausea or vomiting; sudden dizziness and fainting.
“When signs or symptoms of a heart attack occur, we strongly encourage patients to call 9-1-1,” said Josef D. Lowe, MD, Medical Director of Emergency Services at Coshocton Regional Medical Center. “The EMTs and Paramedics can initiate care and get you quickly to the hospital for assessment, medication, and further treatment as necessary. If you are experiencing a heart event, time matters and our goal is to provide national standards of care quickly and efficiently to prevent damage to the heart muscle.”
Coshocton Regional Medical Center is a member of the Prime Healthcare Foundation. Prime Healthcare hospitals are regularly recognized for high-quality care and the health system is one of the fastest-growing hospital systems in the United States.