Johnston Health recognized for excellence with ACC Chest Pain Center accreditation

Johnston Health provides necessary care, resources to patients with heart attack symptoms

The American College of Cardiology has recognized Johnston Health in Smithfield and Clayton for its demonstrated expertise and commitment in treating patients with chest pain. Last month, the health care system was awarded Chest Pain Center Accreditation based on rigorous onsite evaluation of the staff’s ability to evaluate, diagnose and treat patients who may be experiencing a heart attack.

Johnston Health has been an accredited Chest Pain Center since 2013.

“Our organization is committed to providing quality, expert care close to home,” says Johnston Health CEO Tom Williams. “Through the years, we’ve invested in capital, technology, training, and expanded services--all to enhance the care of patients with heart disease.”

Every year, more than 730,000 Americans suffer a heart attack, says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The most common symptom of a heart attack for both men and women is chest pain or discomfort. However, women are more likely to have atypical symptoms.

Other heart attack symptoms include, but are not limited to, tingling or discomfort in one or both arms, back, shoulder, neck or jaw, shortness of breath, cold sweat, unusual tiredness, heartburn-like feeling, nausea or vomiting, sudden dizziness and fainting.

Hospitals that have earned ACC Chest Pain Center Accreditation have proven exceptional competency in
treating patients with heart attack symptoms. They have streamlined their systems from admission to evaluation to diagnosis and treatment all the way through to appropriate post-discharge care and recommendations and assistance in patient lifestyle changes.

“Johnston Health has demonstrated its commitment to providing patients with excellent heart care,” said Phillip D. Levy, MD, FACC, chair of the ACC Accreditation Management Board. “ACC Accreditation Services is proud to award Johnston Health with Chest Pain Center Accreditation.”

Hospitals receiving Chest Pain Center Accreditation from the ACC must take part in a multi-faceted clinical process that involves: completing a gap analysis; examining variances of care, developing an action plan; a rigorous onsite review; and monitoring for sustained success. Improved methods and strategies of caring for patients include streamlining processes, implementing of guidelines and standards, and adopting best practices in the care of patients experiencing the signs and symptoms of a
heart attack.

Hospitals achieving accreditation meet or exceed an array of stringent criteria and have organized a team of doctors, nurses, clinicians, and other administrative staff that earnestly support the efforts leading to better patient education and improved patient outcomes.