Published on March 9, 2026
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Phelps Health earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® and the American Stroke Association’s Heart-Check mark for Acute Stroke Ready Hospital Advanced Certification on February 2, 2026.
“A stroke can destroy nearly 2 million brain cells every minute,” said Suzanne Weckman, DNP, SCRN, director of Time Critical Diagnosis at Phelps Health. “This certification confirms we have the specialized staff and technology to diagnose a stroke the moment you enter our doors.”
Phelps Health underwent a rigorous onsite review on December 8, 2025, by The Joint Commission. Reviewers evaluated compliance with national stroke standards, including rapid diagnosis, evidence-based treatment protocols and continuous performance improvement.
“We congratulate Phelps Health for this outstanding achievement,” said Nancy Brown, chief executive officer of the American Stroke Association. “This certification reflects your commitment to providing the highest quality of care for stroke patients.”
As an Acute Stroke Ready Hospital, Phelps Health:
- Prioritizes speed through teamwork: Coordinated emergency, radiology and laboratory processes reduce the time from arrival to CT scan to just minutes.
- Follows standardized, evidence-based protocols to ensure consistent, high-quality care
- Maintains a dedicated 24/7 stroke-ready team within its Emergency Department
- Administers clot-dissolving medications significantly faster than non-certified facilities
- Uses advanced teleneurology technology to connect local providers in real time with board-certified neurologists
- Ensures seamless transfer when needed: If advanced neurology or neurosurgery care is required, patients are stabilized and transferred quickly through established protocols with Missouri Level I and II Comprehensive Stroke Centers.
“When minutes matter, you shouldn’t have to drive hours for lifesaving care,” said Keri Brookshire-Heavin, MHA, BSN, RN, senior vice president, chief operating officer and chief nursing officer at Phelps Health. “In rural Missouri, this certification is a promise to our community—immediate access to gold-standard stroke care, right here at home.”
For more information, visit jointcommission.org.