When you feel chest pain, having quality heart care close to home can mean life or death.
This month, Mercy in Joplin received recognition for its heart care services by the American College of Cardiology and the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services.
“I am so proud to work with a team that is committed to meeting the needs of our most seriously ill patients and their families every day,” said Dr. William Craig, a cardiologist at Mercy Clinic Cardiology in Joplin.
For the sixth consecutive year, Mercy received the American College of Cardiology’s National Cardiovascular Data Registry (NCDR) ACTION Registry Platinum Performance Achievement Award. Mercy Hospital Joplin is one of only 203 hospitals nationwide to receive the honor.
The award recognizes Mercy Hospital Joplin’s commitment and success in implementing a high standard of care for heart attack patients as outlined by the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association’s clinical guidelines and recommendations.
The ACTION Registry empowers health care provider teams to consistently treat heart attack patients according to the most current, science-based guidelines and establishes a national standard for understanding and improving the quality, safety and outcomes of care provided for patients with coronary artery disease, specifically high-risk heart attack patients.
Treatment guidelines from the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association include administering aspirin upon arrival and discharge, timely restoration of blood flow to the blocked artery, smoking cessation counseling and cardiac rehabilitation, among others.
“We are honored to be among an elite group of hospitals nationwide to receive the platinum award,” said Dr. Craig. “Adhering to these guidelines means we are providing the safest and best care possible to our patients.”
This week, the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services also designated Mercy Hospital Joplin as a Missouri Time Critical Diagnosis Level 1 STEMI Center. Missouri’s Time Critical Diagnosis system helps emergency responders know where to send patients experiencing potential heart problems based on their designation level.
ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) is a serious heart attack in which one of the heart’s main arteries is blocked. Because of the risk of death and disability, patients experiencing a STEMI need quick access to care. Level 1 centers offer specialized resources and lifesaving services for the most complex patients. Level 1 is the highest designation level in the state.
In addition to the timely treatment of patients with heart problems, Mercy co-workers also work with patients to make lifestyle changes through a cardiac rehabilitation program. Getting active and exercising is an essential part of the program. The cardiac rehabilitation team designs a specialized exercise program that is safe and based on each person’s health history and goals.
To learn more about Mercy’s cardiac services in Joplin, contact Mercy Clinic Cardiology in Joplin at (417) 781-5387 or visit mercy.net/JoplinCardio.
