Chatham-Kent’s hospital has been recognized for demonstrating clinical excellence and outstanding commitment to stroke care.
Accreditation Canada has awarded the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA) with a “Distinction in Stroke Services” for 2022 to 2026, as part of its Stroke Distinction program. CKHA was one of nine stroke centres in southwestern Ontario that applied for the distinction.
During a one-day visit in November 2022, an accreditation surveyor reviewed and evaluated CKHA’s programs and services by speaking with staff, physicians, volunteers, patient advisors, patients, and families. Information was also gathered on how CKHA collaborates with other community service partners to support patients and families.
“We did meet 100 per cent of the standards and expectations that were laid out and I have to just say how proud we are of the entire team,” said CKHA President and CEO Lori Marshall. “Stroke care really goes from before someone arrives at the emergency department, right through to their emergency treatment, their acute treatment and their rehab treatment. So it really touches everyone in the organization.”
The Stroke Distinction program was created to help organizations improve care on various levels, including quality and safety, communication and collaboration, leading practices and accountability.
In December 2022, CKHA also received “Accreditation with Exemplary Standing” from Accreditation Canada, which is the highest possible designation for an accredited organization.