Grady Health System's Marcus Stroke and Neuroscience Center has been recertified as an Advanced Comprehensive Stroke Center - receiving The Joint Commission's Gold Seal of Approval and the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association's Heart-Check mark, the symbols of quality from those organizations. 

With this certification, Grady is part of an elite group of health care organizations focused on highly-specialized stroke care. To be eligible, hospitals must demonstrate compliance with stroke-related standards as a Primary Stroke Center and meet additional requirements, including those related to advanced imaging capabilities, 24/7 availability of specialized treatments, and providing staff with the unique education and competencies to care for complex stroke patients. 

"The extraordinary medical team, facilities, and cutting-edge research at the Marcus Stroke and Neuroscience Center have raised the bar for stroke care, not just in metro Atlanta, but also around the nation and the world. We are dedicated to providing the best care possible for our patients and continue to look for ways to make patient outcomes the best possible," said Dr. Michael Frankel, Grady's Chief of Neurology, Director of the Marcus Stroke and Neuroscience Center, and Professor and Director of Vascular Neurology at the Emory University School of Medicine.

Grady underwent a rigorous onsite review, when Joint Commission experts evaluated compliance with stroke-related standards and requirements.

"By achieving this advanced certification, Grady has thoroughly demonstrated the greatest level of commitment to the care of its patients with a complex stroke condition," says Mark R. Chassin, M.D., FACP, M.P.P., M.P.H., president and CEO, The Joint Commission. "Certification is a voluntary process and The Joint Commission commends Grady for successfully undertaking this challenge to elevate the standard of its care for the community it serves."