What Does Stroke Center Certification Mean?
April 16, 2025
Every 40 seconds, someone in the U.S. has a stroke. It could happen on your street, in your workplace, at a store where you shop — anywhere.
A stroke occurs when a clot blocks a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain or when the vessel bursts. When this happens, part of the brain does not get the blood and oxygen it needs. This leads to the death of brain cells in that area.
Watch What is Stroke?
Stroke is the No. 5 cause of death and a leading cause of disability in the U.S.
Timely stroke detection and treatment are key to improving survival, minimizing disability, and accelerating recovery times. In fact, rapid access to medical treatment makes the difference between full recovery and permanent disability.
Stroke center certification represents our commitment to you.
Trinity Health Michigan hospitals have gone the extra mile to achieve advanced certifications for stroke care. Certified stroke centers have the necessary structure, staff, and procedures to ensure rapid identification and treatment of strokes. You can feel sure that you are getting care at a place known for its skill in treating strokes. Certification helps us follow set guidelines and best practices for stroke care. This leads to better and more consistent treatment. It also reduces the risk of complications and death.
Certified as Comprehensive Stroke Center, recognizing hospitals that offer the highest level of care for the most complex stroke cases, with extensive research and neurointensive care capabilities:
- Grand Rapids
Certified as Thrombectomy-Capable Stroke Center, recognizing hospitals with added specialized capabilities to perform mechanical thrombectomy for stroke patients:
- Ann Arbor
- Oakland
Certified as Primary Stroke Center, recognizing hospitals that provide initial stabilization and medication (IV tPA) for stroke patients:
- Chelsea
- Grand Haven
- Livonia
- Muskegon
Certified as an Acute Stroke Ready Hospital, recognizing hospitals or emergency centers with a dedicated stroke-focused program:
- Shelby
What else do I need to know about stroke?
Time is critical in stroke treatment. Know the signs of stroke and what to do if you notice them. Your ability to recognize stroke warning signs and call 911 can save a life. It can also affect recovery and long-term disability.
Use B.E. F.A.S.T. to remember the symptoms of stroke:
• B: Balance: Sudden loss of balance or coordination
• E: Eyes: Blurred vision, double vision, or loss of vision in one eye
• F: Face: Drooping on one side of the face, difficulty smiling, or trouble speaking
• A: Arm: Weakness or numbness in one arm
• S: Speech: Slurred speech, difficulty understanding words, or inability to speak
• T: Time: It is crucial to act quickly if you notice these symptoms, as they may indicate a stroke.
Call 911 and seek emergency medical attention immediately.
Trinity Health Stroke Centers work with local EMS. This helps them get you here quickly. They can start treatment on the way. They also give us important information so we are ready when you arrive.
Watch Time is Important
Are you at risk for stroke?
Learn if you’re at a higher risk for a stoke with our quick Health Risk Assessment. Gain personalized insights on how to reduce the likelihood of stroke.