Columbus Community Hospital Stroke Team Report Highlights Care Advances

Columbus Community Hospital has released its 2025-26 stroke team annual report, highlighting the team's continued commitment to providing timely, evidence-based care for patients experiencing a stroke.

The report showcases accomplishments, initiatives and educational efforts that supported stroke care during the past fiscal year. It also reflects the collaboration among emergency medicine providers, imaging staff members, nurses, therapists and other healthcare professionals who work together to provide rapid assessment and treatment when every second counts.

Among the highlights included in the report is the hospital's achievement of Acute Stroke Ready Hospital certification from The Joint Commission, in collaboration with the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association. The designation recognizes hospitals that meet national standards for the treatment and stabilization of stroke patients.

“This year we reached a major goal and amplified our commitment to stroke care with imaging upgrades,” said Dr. Mark Howerter, the hospital’s chief medical officer. “Obtaining certification as a Stroke Ready Hospital was several years in the making and requires a high level of collaboration among several hospital departments.”

The report also outlines updates in stroke care practices, community education efforts and the hospital's ongoing focus on improving outcomes for patients across the region. In addition, it provides information about the warning signs of stroke and the importance of seeking immediate medical attention when symptoms occur.

“Since initiating efforts to achieve stroke certification, the hospital has remained committed to educating the community and surrounding areas on early recognition of stroke symptoms,” said Sue Deyke, CCH’s emergency department director. “These outreach and education initiatives have enhanced public awareness, leading to improved recognition, timely interventions and earlier detection of stroke events.”

The annual report also reflects the teamwork and preparation required to successfully complete the certification survey process and maintain a high standard of stroke care.

“I am incredibly proud of how our hospital came together as a team to prepare for the survey,” said Natalie Sprunk, stroke coordinator.

Stroke remains a leading medical emergency, and timely treatment can significantly affect recovery and long-term outcomes. Through ongoing education, quality improvement efforts and teamwork across multiple departments, Columbus Community Hospital continues to strengthen the care available to patients close to home.

To read the full 2025-26 stroke team annual report, visit columbushosp.org/about-us/reports/stroke-team-annual-report/.