Snoqualmie Valley Hospital Receives Stroke and Cardiac Center Designations

Snoqualmie, WA, November 20, 2011 --(PR.com)-- The Snoqualmie Valley Hospital District recently received a Level III Stroke Center and Level II Cardiac Center designation within the new Washington State Emergency Cardiac and Stroke System. Modeled on State’s trauma system, the ECS system will fully implement once Emergency Medical Service providers have been trained on patient triage and destination procedures and patient care protocols.

Together, heart disease and stroke are the leading cause of death in Washington. Many people die or are disabled because they don’t get treatment in time. “Each minute is critical to get the right treatment for stroke, heart attack, and cardiac arrest,” said Secretary of the Washington State Department of Health. “The new system speeds up access to life-saving treatment.”

“Our early and enthusiastic participation in the Emergency Cardiac and Stroke system is one example of how the Snoqualmie Valley Hospital District is safeguarding the health of local residents,” according to Dr. Kim Witkop, Vice President of Medical Affairs at Snoqualmie Valley Hospital District.

The public can help by learning heart attack and stroke symptoms and calling 9-1-1 immediately when they or someone they’re with have these symptoms. They can also help by learning to do CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation). New CPR guidelines only require chest compressions ─ mouth-to-mouth contact is no longer recommended.

In addition to hospital, primary care and specialty services, the Snoqualmie Valley Hospital District provides 24-hour emergency room services and convenient appointments to anyone wishing to schedule imaging or laboratory services. For more information, call 425-831-2300, email info@snoqualmiehospital.org or visit www.snoqualmiehospital.org.

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