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Thursday, October 29, 2009

UMC Designated as a Certified Primary Stroke Center

UMC is now recognized as a Certified Primary Stroke Center by The Joint Commission, an organization that accredits healthcare organizations. The distinction signifies UMC’s dedication to offering the most sophisticated and rapid treatment available, providing the best possible outcomes for our patients.

UMC’s stroke team is led by award-winning Neurologist Dr. Murray Flaster, who is an expert in stroke care.

“The most important step in treating a stroke is the first one, getting to a hospital that is experienced and fully equipped to provide an accurate diagnosis and quick treatment for this devastating medical emergency,” said UMC Neurologist Dr. Murray Flaster.

In emergency rooms across the country, the average time it takes to get a stroke patient into a CT scan in the emergency room is 45 minutes. UMC has set the gold standard for stroke care in southern Nevada with a “door-to-CT-scan-time” of only 12 minutes, which means patients can be diagnosed and treated for a stroke within minutes of coming through our doors.

“Those 12 minutes could save your life and limit the debilitating injuries that can occur after a stroke,” said UMC’s Director of Emergency Jackie Levy. “If you think you’re having a stroke, with the symptoms of weakness, slurred speech or an intense headache, don’t wait; call 9-1-1 and have them take you to our Emergency Department so we can help you.”

As a Certified Primary Stroke Center, UMC provides stroke diagnosis and treatment 24 hours a day, with an entire team of stroke specialists standing by to care for southern Nevadans.

“Getting the right treatment as fast as possible can make a huge difference in how you recover from a stroke. Our community can count on UMC, and the extraordinary medical team there, to provide us with phenomenal care,” said Clark County Commissioner Lawrence Weekly.

Contact Information:
Danita Cohen
(702) 383-3987
Danita.Cohen@umcsn.com
University Medical Center
1800 West Charleston Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89102