POCAHONTAS, Ark. – St. Bernards Five Rivers Medical Center has received the American Heart Association’s highest possible awards for demonstrating its commitment to follow up-to-date, research-based guidelines for the treatment of heart disease and stroke. The awards, known as the Get With The Guidelines and Mission: Lifeline achievement awards, have led nationally to more lives saved, shorter recovery times and fewer hospital readmission rates.

In particular, St. Bernards Five Rivers received “Gold Plus” recognition for serving as a STEMI Referring healthcare provider, helping patients experiencing STEMI (ST-elevation myocardial infarction) heart attacks, which are often more severe and dangerous than other types of heart attacks. In addition, the hospital earned “Gold Plus with Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite” for providing care to patients experiencing a stroke, the number 5 cause of death in the United States and a leading cause of disability.

“We are pleased to recognize St. Bernards Five Rivers Medical Center for its commitment to caring for those in their community who need cardiovascular care,” said John Warner, M.D., FAHA, past president of the American Heart Association and CEO of The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. “Hospitals that follow the American Heart Association’s quality improvement protocols often see improved patient outcomes, fewer readmissions and lower mortality rates – a win for healthcare systems, families and communities.”

St. Bernards Five Rivers Medical Center Administrator Randy Barymon commended the Five Rivers team for showing a commitment to follow research-based care in a prompt and compassionate way.

“It’s known that every 40 seconds, someone in the U.S. has a heart attack or stroke. Rural areas like ours are not immune,” Barymon said. “The American Heart Association has proven itself a good partner in helping our teams put knowledge and guidelines to work on a daily basis. Ultimately, we can ensure more people in Randolph County live longer, healthier lives.”

For more information, visit https://www.stbernards.infoor call 870.207.7300.

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