Lehigh Valley Hospital, part of Jefferson Health - Hecktown Oaks has received The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval as a Primary Stroke Center.

“This accreditation shows our community LVH - Hecktown Oaks is prepared to take all necessary steps to quickly assess and treat strokes,” said Yevgeniy Isayev, MD, Medical Director of Stroke Centers at LVH - Cedar Crest and LVH - Muhlenberg. “A stroke can happen at any time, so getting fast, high-quality care in the critical moments following a stroke makes a significant difference in treatment and recovery,” Isayev said.

To achieve the designation, LVH - Hecktown Oaks underwent a comprehensive on-site evaluation by Joint Commission reviewers. The review team assessed compliance with stroke-related standards and requirements. This includes program management, delivery of clinical care and performance improvement.

“Earning a Primary Stroke Center designation is a testament to the stroke team’s expertise and unwavering commitment to the community,” said Katey Cheponis, MD, Stroke Medical Director, LVH - Hecktown Oaks. “The colleagues who helped earn this designation understand every second counts when responding to a stroke and every patient matters, and I am so proud of what we have achieved together.”

LVH - Hecktown Oaks has a dedicated emergency department physician who specializes in stroke care and a stroke neurologist who is also capable of recognizing and treating stroke symptoms. The stroke team can provide fast stroke assessment with imaging and is trained to administer clot-busting medication when necessary.

Patients who require advanced stroke care will be transferred to the Comprehensive Stroke Center at LVH - Cedar Crest.

“I am so proud of the stroke team at LVH - Hecktown Oaks for achieving this incredible milestone,” said Lisa Liddington, Chief Operating Officer, LVH - Hecktown Oaks. “Earning a Primary Stroke Center designation is a reflection of our team’s dedication to providing trusted, lifesaving care to our community.”