Stroke Care
When a stroke strikes, every second counts. Our award-winning stroke care team is trained to respond quickly with expert care designed to minimize damage, maximize recovery and help you return to the life you love.
All three Southcoast Health hospitals are Certified Primary Stroke Centers through The Joint Commision.
Stroke Care at Southcoast Health
From the first signs of stroke to long-term rehabilitation, we’re by your side every step of the way. We bring together a team of specialists including neurologists, neurosurgeons, radiologists and certified stroke nurses — who are ready 24/7 to provide advanced treatment for your specific needs.
Our stroke program is certified by the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association and treats a wide range of stroke-related conditions, including:
- Ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke – caused by blocked or ruptured blood vessels in the brain
- TIA (transient ischemic attack) – sometimes called a “mini-stroke”
- Aneurysm – a bulging, weakened blood vessel that may rupture
- AVM (arteriovenous malformation) – an abnormal tangle of blood vessels
- Subarachnoid hemorrhage – bleeding between the brain and its covering
We also offer clot-busting medications, catheter-based procedures, stroke education and personalized rehabilitation services such as physical, occupational and speech therapy.
Sudden Stroke Symptoms
Stroke symptoms come on quickly. Knowing what to look for — and acting fast — can save a life. Call 911 immediately if you notice any of the following:
- Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg (especially on one side)
- Sudden drooping on one side of the face
- Sudden confusion or trouble speaking or understanding
- Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
- Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, or loss of balance
- Sudden, severe headache with no known cause
When stroke symptoms appear, don’t wait. We are prepared to deliver the immediate care you or your loved one needs.
Nationally Recognized for Stroke Care
All Three Southcoast Health Hospitals Receive National Recognition for Their Commitment to Providing High-Quality Stroke Care
In 2024, both Charlton Memorial Hospital and St. Luke’s Hospital were recipients of the American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines® – Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Stroke Elite Honor Roll and Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll award. Tobey Hospital received the Get With The Guidelines – Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Stroke Honor Roll and Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll award.
All three Southcoast Health hospitals have earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® and the American Stroke Association’s Heart-Check mark for Advanced Primary Stroke Center Certification.
To earn this prestigious two-year certification, Southcoast Health underwent a rigorous, unannounced onsite review at the end of 2024. During the visit, a team of Joint Commission reviewers evaluated compliance with related certification standards including program management and delivering and facilitating clinical care.
