The Comprehensive Stroke Center at Maimonides Medical Center has the highest survival rate of any hospital stroke program in the US, according to the most recent mortality report published by the federal government.
“Our nationally acclaimed Stroke Center remains committed to achieving superior stroke patient outcomes,” says Kenneth D. Gibbs, President and CEO of Maimonides Medical Center. “The outstanding care that is delivered demonstrates one of the many reasons why our hospital is among the Top 10 in the nation for overall clinical excellence.”
Led by Program Director Dr. Tony Qingliang Wang, the fully accredited Comprehensive Stroke Center at Maimonides is comprised of a distinguished team of specialists working together to provide exceptional care. Physicians and nurses in emergency medicine, interventional neuroradiology, vascular and neurosurgery, neurocritical care and rehabilitation medicine collaborate to deliver a full range of technologically advanced diagnostic and treatment services to all patients.
“As the fifth leading cause of death in the United States, stroke impacts a significant part of our population,” explains Dr. Wang. “A person suffers a stroke approximately every 40 seconds in the US, someone dies from stroke ever four minutes, and 80 percent of strokes can be prevented. So when it comes to diagnosis and treatment, every moment counts.”
In addition to the superb results reported by the federal government, the Comprehensive Stroke Center at Maimonides has earned American Stroke Association top honors for the eighth consecutive year, receiving the Get With The Guidelines®- Stroke Gold Plus Achievement Award and the Target: StrokeSM Honor Roll Elite Plus – the ASA’s highest level of recognition for stroke care excellence.
Dr. Wang joined Mr. Gibbs, New York State Assembly Member Steven Cymbrowitz and New York City Council Member Dr. Mathieu Eugene at the hospital’s recent Stroke Awareness Flag-Raising. He stressed the importance of acting quickly when witnessing possible signs of a stroke: “If you suspect you or a loved one may be experiencing a stroke, phoning 911 immediately can make a big difference.”
Since blood flow to part of the brain is cut off during a stroke, acting fast can help minimize the risk of brain damage and ensure care is received promptly.
The National Stroke Association provides a useful acronym to help identify stroke symptoms and respond quickly, “BE FAST.” In the event someone might be experiencing a stroke, be sure to observe these crucial signs:
- (B) Is the person having difficulty maintaining Balance?
- (E) Is there a loss of vision in one or both Eyes?
- (F) Ask the person to smile–does one side of the Face droop?
- (A) When the person raises both arms, does one Arm drift downward?
- (S) Is Speech slurred or unclear?
- (T) If the person is exhibiting one or more of these signs, it’s Time to call 911 immediately.
“Prevention remains our most effective weapon in stroke care,” Dr. Wang points out. Therefore, it is important to be mindful of lifestyle habits and medical history. He recommends these valuable tips to minimize risk factors and achieve a healthier lifestyle:
- Check your blood pressure regularly.
- Eat a balanced diet of vegetables, whole grains, fish, lean meats and fruit.
- Maintain a steady weight.
- Monitor your blood cholesterol. Aim to lower your LDL (or “Lousy”) cholesterol and increase the “Healthy” kind known as HDL.
- Strive for at least two and a half hours per week of moderate exercise.
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
- Quit smoking.
- Treat circulation problems.
- Consult your doctor if you have a family history of stroke or high blood pressure to determine if additional assistance in prevention efforts is needed.
To learn more about Maimonides’ award-winning Stroke Program, call 718-283-7670 or visit https://www.maimonidesmed.org/stroke-and-neurosciences/our-services/stroke-and-neurosciences.
Maimonides Medical Center is nationally recognized for clinical excellence across all major specialties. Our accomplished physicians are known for innovation and strengthening our teaching and research programs. With 711 beds, the Medical Center is dedicated to bringing patients the most advanced care available—anywhere. Maimonides continues to grow in response to evolving models of care that better serve patients and families, and is an affiliate of Northwell Health. To learn more, please visit http://www.maimonidesmed.org.
