Texas Health Fort Worth Just Earned a Shocking Stroke Care Award—What Does This Mean for You?

For the fourth consecutive time, Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Fort Worth has received the Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® and the American Heart Association’s Heart-Check mark for its Advanced Certification for Comprehensive Stroke Centers. This prestigious recognition not only highlights the hospital's commitment to high-quality neurological care but also underscores its pivotal role in serving stroke patients across North Texas and beyond.

Since becoming the first hospital in Fort Worth to earn this national certification in 2019, Texas Health Fort Worth has consistently ranked as the medical facility that cares for the highest number of stroke patients in the region. “For more than five years, Texas Health Fort Worth has consistently cared for the highest number of stroke patients in North Texas,” said Jared Shelton, FACHE, president of Texas Health Fort Worth. “We’re honored that patients and their families choose us to be there in their most critical times of need. We want them to know that improving their quality of life and empowering them with resources is not just a goal but a priority.”

The hospital's stroke program is equipped to provide patients with access to specialized physician care and cutting-edge technology for effective diagnosis and treatment of strokes. Notably, the facility includes a dedicated neurosurgical intensive care unit, educational and support programs, a Brain Injury Transitional Services program, advanced imaging systems for detecting clots deep in the brain, and virtual stroke care capabilities. Given that stroke is the No. 4 cause of death in Texas, with particularly high prevalence rates in Dallas and Tarrant counties, such resources are crucial for the community.

“Consistently earning certification from Joint Commission sets the parameters for Texas Health Fort Worth’s continued commitment to excellence, but it’s more than just accolades,” stated Vinit Mehrotra, M.D., a neurologist on the hospital’s medical staff and the medical director of its stroke program. “Whether stroke symptoms are minor to severe, providing individuals with high-quality treatment, education, and rehab is the constant priority, regardless of their ZIP code.”

As the only Advanced Comprehensive Stroke Center in Tarrant County certified by the Joint Commission, Texas Health Fort Worth stands out as one of fewer than 50 comprehensive stroke facilities across Texas. The two-year certification encompasses a full spectrum of stroke care, including diagnosis, education, rehabilitation, and treatment. To qualify, hospitals must demonstrate compliance with stroke-related standards as a Primary Stroke Center and meet additional criteria related to advanced imaging capabilities, 24/7 availability of specialized treatments, and a staff well-trained in handling complex stroke cases.

This certification is a testament to the hospital’s ongoing dedication to delivering optimal care in what is often a life-threatening situation. With stroke care being a significant health concern, the hospital's efforts help ensure that residents in the area receive timely and effective treatment, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes.