Two Indian hospitals have achieved a milestone in stroke care by becoming the first Comprehensive Stroke Centers certified by the American Stroke Association, a significant step toward improving healthcare standards and patient outcomes in the country.
Apollo Hospital in Hyderabad, Telangana, and Aster Hospital in Calicut, Kerala, received certification recognizing their advanced capabilities in diagnosing and treating complex stroke cases. This certification requires hospitals to demonstrate rigorous standards, including state-of-the-art equipment, specialized infrastructure, trained staff, and advanced imaging and treatment capabilities.
The certification is particularly crucial in India, where stroke is the fourth leading cause of death and fifth leading cause of disability. The American Heart Association's initiative aims to establish a coordinated system of stroke care that can potentially save lives and reduce long-term disability risks.
Currently, two stroke certification classifications exist in India: Comprehensive Stroke Centers and Primary Stroke Centers. Comprehensive Stroke Centers must meet more stringent requirements, including 24/7 specialized treatments, active research participation, and staff with unique competencies in complex stroke patient care.
D.P. Suresh, a volunteer member of the American Heart Association's International Committee, emphasized the importance of science-based methods in stroke assessment, diagnosis, and treatment. The certification program represents a significant step toward improving healthcare quality and patient outcomes in India.
This development signals a promising advancement in India's healthcare infrastructure, potentially setting a new standard for stroke care and inspiring other medical facilities to enhance their diagnostic and treatment capabilities.
