The American Heart Association has recently acknowledged the efforts of 4,859 healthcare and emergency response organizations across the United States for their dedication to improving outcomes for cardiovascular disease (CVD). This recognition is a testament to the pivotal role that evidence-based care plays in the fight against heart disease and stroke, which remain the leading causes of death in the country. The awards, part of the Get With The Guidelines® and other quality improvement initiatives, are bestowed upon organizations that leverage the latest scientific research to inform their treatment decisions, ensuring that patients receive timely, consistent, and research-backed care.
This year, the Association introduced a new Commitment to Quality award, which was awarded to 158 hospitals for their high performance across three or more clinical areas within the Get With The Guidelines program. This new accolade highlights hospitals that adopt a comprehensive approach to enhancing the quality of patient care. Donald Lloyd-Jones, M.D., Sc.M., FAHA, stressed the significance of rapid, coordinated, and science-based care for patients suffering from heart attacks and strokes. The recognition of these organizations marks a significant step forward in the collective endeavor to prolong healthier lives and diminish the number of deaths related to CVD.
With more than 14,500 awards distributed this year, the initiative's reach extends across all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, and Guam. The increasing number of organizations being recognized underscores the healthcare community's growing dedication to quality improvement and excellence in patient care. For those interested in learning more about the Get With The Guidelines program or viewing the complete list of award recipients, further information is available at www.heart.org/quality.
