DOVER, NH – Wentworth-Douglass Hospital has received two 2023 “Get With The Guidelines” awards from the American Heart Association, for excellence in treating heart failure and stroke. The honors were given with “Gold Plus” distinction – the highest level of the award given by the organization.

The heart failure award recognizes Wentworth-Douglass’ commitment to improving outcomes, especially reduced readmissions. It is earned by hospitals that demonstrate a commitment to treating patients according to the American Heart Association’s most recent guidelines and ensures patient care is aligned with the latest research and evidence-based directives.

The stroke award recognizes the hospital’s commitment to ensuring stroke patients receive the most appropriate treatment according to nationally recognized, research-based guidelines - ultimately leading to more lives saved and reduced disability.

“We are pleased to recognize the leaders and teams at Wentworth-Douglass for a strong commitment to care,” said Dr. Clyde W. Yancy, national chairperson of the American Heart Association’s heart failure systems of care advisory group.

“Hospitals that participate in Get With The Guidelines quality improvement programs often see better patient outcomes, fewer readmissions and lower mortality rates – a win for health care systems, families and communities,” he said.

About 6 million U.S. adults are living with heart failure, a number that is expected to increase to more than 8 million by 2030. Despite the name, heart failure doesn’t mean that the heart has stopped working, but rather that it is having a hard time pumping blood and oxygen throughout the body. While there’s no cure, patients can live a quality life by working with their health care team to create a treatment plan that may include medication, symptom monitoring, and lifestyle changes.

Stroke is fifth-leading cause of death, and a leading cause of disability, in the United States. A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or bursts. When that happens, part of the brain cannot get the blood and oxygen it needs, so brain cells die. Early stroke detection and treatment are key to improving survival, minimizing disability, and accelerating recovery times.

Each year, program participants qualify for the awards recognitions by demonstrating how their organization has committed to providing quality care for patients. In addition to following treatment guidelines, “Get With The Guidelines” participants also provide education to patients to help them manage their conditions at home.