Thanks to Northeast Georgia Medical Center Barrow's advancement in multiple areas of stroke care, the hospital is now designated as a Remote Treatment Stroke Center by the Georgia Department of Public Health’s Office of EMS and Trauma.

"This is another great example of how we're working to improve the health of our community and provide life-saving care here for Barrow and surrounding counties," said Chad Hatfield, president of NGMC Barrow. "We're proud of all team members – physicians, other caregivers and support staff – who worked together to achieve this tremendous milestone."

The designation recognizes NGMC Barrow's focus on everything from rapid screening, diagnosis and treatment for patients experiencing an acute stroke - as well as prevention measures such as blood pressure control, smoking cessation and treatment of elevated cholesterol levels.

Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in America and a leading cause of adult disability, according to the National Stroke Association, and as much as 80 percent of strokes may be prevented. Strokes cut off blood flow to part of the brain, depriving it of oxygen and nutrients. Brain cells start to die and abilities such as memory and muscle control are permanently damaged.

"We have a saying when it comes to the importance of rapid stroke treatment:'Time lost is brain lost," says Rishi Sareen, MD, medical director of NGMC Barrow's Emergency Department. "Since every minute counts when brain cells are dying, it is very crucial that patients are taken to the closest designated stroke treatment center - and we're thrilled NGMC Barrow is now on that list."