Primary Stroke Center

Expert Stroke Care When Every Second Counts

Guthrie provides nationally recognized stroke care, ensuring our communities have access to advanced treatment and better outcomes.  

What is a Primary Stroke Center?

When a stroke occurs, receiving immediate, expert care is critical. A Primary Stroke Center certification is a prestigious designation awarded to hospitals that meet the highest standards for treating stroke patients. This certification signifies that a hospital has the necessary resources, staff and training to provide state-of-the-art care.

The certification is a joint effort by The Joint Commission and the American Heart Association. To earn this recognition, hospitals must undergo a rigorous evaluation and demonstrate compliance with specific, evidence-based standards of care. This process ensures that certified centers are fully equipped to deliver rapid and effective treatment, which is proven to improve patient outcomes.

Choosing a Primary Stroke Center means you are choosing a hospital committed to excellence in stroke care. This commitment translates into a higher quality of care, from initial diagnosis through treatment and rehabilitation.

Know the Signs of a Stroke: BE FAST

Recognizing the symptoms of a stroke and acting quickly can save a life and reduce long-term disability. If you notice any of these signs, call 911 immediately.
•    Balance: Sudden loss of balance or coordination.
•    Eyes: Abrupt vision loss in one or both eyes.
•    Face Drooping: One side of the face droops or is numb. Ask the person to smile.
•    Arm Weakness: One arm is weak or numb. Ask the person to raise both arms.
•    Speech Difficulty: Slurred speech or difficulty being understood.
•    Time to Call 911: If you see any of these signs, even if they go away, call 911.

Guthrie’s Certified Primary Stroke Centers

We are proud to have several hospitals within our system recognized as Primary Stroke Centers. This achievement reflects our dedication to providing exceptional, life-saving care across the region. Our centers are staffed by board-certified neurologists and vascular specialists and feature advanced technology such as hybrid operating rooms and interventional radiology suites to manage all types of stroke.

Find expert stroke care at a Guthrie location near you:

•    Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital
•    Guthrie Corning Hospital
•    Guthrie Cortland Medical Center
•    Guthrie Lourdes Hospital