Bloomington, Indiana – IU Health Bloomington has once again proven its dedication to delivering exceptional care for stroke patients. The hospital was recently honored with the American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines® – Stroke Gold Plus quality achievement award, a national recognition that highlights IU Health Bloomington’s efforts to ensure stroke patients receive treatment aligned with the latest medical guidelines and best practices.
This award places IU Health Bloomington among the top hospitals in the country focused on stroke care. By following evidence-based recommendations, the hospital aims to improve outcomes for stroke patients, helping them survive, recover faster, and avoid serious long-term disability. Hospital officials say this recognition is a reflection of the staff’s tireless commitment to doing what is best for their patients.
Stroke continues to be a serious health threat across the United States. It ranks as the fifth leading cause of death and remains one of the top causes of long-term disability. A stroke happens when blood flow to a part of the brain is either blocked by a clot or disrupted by a rupture. Without oxygen and vital nutrients, brain cells begin to die within minutes. This makes early detection and rapid treatment critically important. Patients who receive fast, appropriate care stand a much better chance of surviving and making a meaningful recovery.
IU Health Bloomington’s recognition stems from its participation in the Get With The Guidelines – Stroke program, a national initiative designed by the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association. The program helps hospitals consistently deliver high-quality stroke care by ensuring they follow the latest science-backed guidelines. These guidelines focus on timely treatment, proper medication use, and education that prepares patients for life after a stroke.
“IU Health Bloomington is committed to improving patient care for Monroe County and our surrounding communities by adhering to the latest treatment guidelines,” said IU Health South Region President Denzil Ross. “Get With The Guidelines helps our teams put proven knowledge and guidelines to work on a daily basis, which studies show can enhance patient recovery. The end goal is to ensure more people in south-central Indiana can experience longer, healthier lives.”
Participation in the program is more than just checking off boxes. Hospitals must demonstrate that they consistently apply these guidelines to real patients in real situations. The Gold Plus level award recognizes IU Health Bloomington’s continued success in meeting these high standards year after year. Beyond following treatment protocols, the program also emphasizes educating patients so they understand how to manage their health once they leave the hospital — a crucial step in reducing the risk of another stroke.
“We are incredibly pleased to recognize IU Health Bloomington for its commitment to caring for patients with stroke,” said Steven Messe, M.D., volunteer chair of the American Heart Association Stroke System of Care Advisory Group. “Participation in Get With The Guidelines is associated with improved patient outcomes, fewer readmissions and lower mortality rates — a win for health care systems, families and communities.”
In addition to the Gold Plus award, IU Health Bloomington earned further honors. The hospital received the Target: StrokeSM Honor Roll award, which acknowledges efforts to reduce the time between a stroke patient’s arrival at the hospital and the start of thrombolytic therapy — a treatment that dissolves blood clots and restores blood flow to the brain. Quick action in these critical moments can often mean the difference between full recovery and permanent disability.
The hospital also achieved recognition through the Target: Type 2 Diabetes™ Honor Roll. This award reflects IU Health Bloomington’s commitment to providing specialized care to stroke patients who also live with Type 2 diabetes — a population at increased risk for stroke complications. By ensuring these patients receive up-to-date, tailored care, IU Health helps improve recovery and long-term health outcomes.
All of these achievements show that IU Health Bloomington takes a comprehensive approach to stroke care. From the moment a patient arrives to the guidance they receive after leaving, the hospital focuses on giving every individual the best possible chance at a healthy future.
With these recognitions, IU Health Bloomington continues to build its reputation as a trusted leader in stroke care, bringing peace of mind to families across Monroe County and beyond.
