BECKLEY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Raleigh General Hospital has received national recognition for its commitment to high-quality stroke care.
On July 16, 2025, the hospital was awarded the American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines® – Stroke Gold Plus quality achievement award.
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The recognition highlights Raleigh General’s efforts to ensure stroke patients receive timely and appropriate treatment based on nationally recognized, research-based guidelines—efforts that contribute to saving lives and reducing disability.
Stroke remains the No. 5 cause of death and a leading cause of disability in the United States.
A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that supplies oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or bursts.
This interruption prevents brain cells from receiving oxygen, causing them to die. Early detection and treatment are key to improving survival and recovery outcomes.
Get With The Guidelines is a nationwide, in-hospital program from the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association aimed at improving stroke care by promoting adherence to the latest evidence-based practices.
The program helps hospitals provide consistent, high-quality care that can reduce the long-term effects of stroke and prevent death.
“Raleigh General Hospital is committed to improving patient care by adhering to the latest treatment guidelines,” states David Brash, Chief Executive Officer at RGH.
“Get With The Guidelines makes it easier for our teams to put proven knowledge and guidelines to work on a daily basis, which studies show can help patients recover better. The end goal is to ensure more people in Raleigh County and the surrounding areas can experience longer, healthier lives.”
Each year, hospitals qualify for the Gold Plus award by demonstrating commitment to quality stroke care. This includes not only meeting treatment standards but also educating patients on managing their health after discharge.
“We are incredibly pleased to recognize Raleigh General Hospital 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.”
