UPMC Outpatient Emergency Department Awarded Stroke Ready Certification

November 7, 2023

LOCK HAVEN, Pa. – UPMC Outpatient Emergency Department in Lock Haven has earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® and the American Stroke Association’s Heart-Check mark for Acute Stroke Ready Certification.

“Our process is proven by our results and achieving certification recognizes the hard work and dedication of our staff who ensure our community has access to the highest quality emergency care close to home,” said Jeff Muenzer, M.D., medical director, UPMC Outpatient Emergency Department in Lock Haven. “When it comes to stroke care, time is everything and even one minute can have an impact on a patient’s recovery. Our skilled staff provides safe and effective emergency care right here in Lock Haven while seamlessly connecting our staff and patients directly with the advanced care offered at UPMC Williamsport, a Joint Commission Certified Primary Stroke Center. We’re operating in a new model within the Commonwealth, and this award is validation that our services are vital and continue to support the needs of the community.”

The outpatient emergency department underwent a rigorous on-site review when Joint Commission experts evaluated compliance with national disease-specific care standards. Clinical practice guidelines and performance measures also were assessed. Joint Commission standards are developed in consultation with health care experts and providers, measurement experts and patients. The reviewers also conducted onsite observations and interviews.

“Acute Stroke Ready Certification recognizes healthcare organizations committed to striving for excellence and fostering continuous improvement in patient safety and quality of care,” says Ken Grubbs, DNP, MBA, RN, executive vice president of Accreditation and Certification Operations and chief nursing officer, The Joint Commission. “We commend the UPMC Outpatient Emergency Department in Lock Haven for using The Joint Commission certification process to reduce variation in clinical processes and to strengthen its clinical program to drive safer, higher quality and more compassionate care for individuals served.”

For more information on the Acute Stroke Ready Certification, visit JointCommission.org.

To learn more about the comprehensive stroke care services available at UPMC in North Central Pa., visit UPMC.com/NeuroNCPA.