UnityPoint Health – Iowa Methodist Medical Center Earns Primary Stroke Center Certification Through 2028

Iowa Methodist Medical Center has received recertification from DNV as a Primary Stroke Center through August 15, 2028, affirming the hospital’s readiness to  handle a full range of stroke-related medical problems. Iowa Methodist Medical Center first  earned its Primary Stroke Center certification in 2010, marking 15 years of continuous  recognition for its high standards in stroke care.  

The DNV Primary Stroke Center Certification is based on standards set forth by the Brain  Attack Coalition and the American Stroke Association and affirms that the Iowa Methodist  Medical Center provides comprehensive stroke care, including diagnosis, treatment,  rehabilitation and education, and establishes clear metrics to evaluate outcomes.  

“This certification demonstrates to our community that we have the resources, expertise and ongoing commitment to deliver the best possible stroke care,” says Dr. Wendy Woods Swafford, MD, MPH, UnityPoint Health – Des Moines market chief medical officer. “It’s a  combination of the right people, training and equipment to quickly assess and treat strokes.  This includes the ability to efficiently transfer patients in the rare instances they require  treatment beyond our capabilities. Achieving recertification validates the continuous effort  our team has put into this program and reinforces our dedication to ensuring the health and  safety of our patients.” 

According to the American Stroke Association, stroke is a leading cause of death, killing  nearly 130,000 people each year, and is a leading cause of serious, long-term adult  disability. Because stroke or “brain attack” affects blood flow to the brain, rapid and  effective treatment can save lives and provide the best chance of limiting the extent of long term damage.