ST. JOSEPH, Mich. -- Spectrum Health Lakeland has received the American Heart Association’s Gold Plus Get With the Guidelines Stroke Quality Achievement award for the ninth consecutive year.

In addition, Spectrum Health Lakeland was awarded for its diabetic care, ensuring patients with type 2 diabetes receive the most up-to-date and evidence-based care when hospitalized due to stroke.

The accolades recognize the hospital for their commitment to ensuring stroke patients receive the most appropriate treatment according to nationally recognized and research-based guidelines.

The treatment procedure has saved lives and reduced disability.

“Our team is fast-acting and has put proven knowledge and guidelines to work, which studies show can help patients recover better,” said Dr. Robert Ward III, medical director of the Stroke Program at Spectrum Health Lakeland.  “The end goal is to ensure more people in our community can experience longer, healthier lives.”

Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death and a leading cause of adult disability in the U.S., and type 2 diabetes poses a higher risk for complications when hospitalized due to stroke.

“Our clinical teams are persistently working to provide the highest quality care, see fewer readmissions, and help lower mortality rates,” said Natalie Baggio, senior vice president of Patient Care Services and chief nursing executive at Spectrum Health Lakeland. “Spectrum Health Lakeland hospitals follow consistent adherence to these guidelines, which can minimize the long-term effects of a stroke and even prevent death.”

For more information about identifying the signs and symptoms of a stroke and education on how you can lower risks for a stroke, visit www.spectrumhealthlakeland.org/stroke