The American College of Cardiology has recognized Medical Center Hospital for its demonstrated expertise and commitment in treating patients with chest pain. Medical Center Hospital was awarded Chest Pain Center Accreditation with Primary PCI in May based on rigorous onsite evaluation of the staff’s ability to evaluate, diagnose and treat patients who may be experiencing a heart attack.
Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is also known as coronary angioplasty. It is a non-surgical procedure that opens narrowed or blocked coronary arteries with a balloon to relieve symptoms of heart disease or reduce heart damage during or after a heart attack.
Hospitals that have earned ACC Chest Pain Center with Primary PCI Accreditation have proven exceptional competency in treating patients with heart attack symptoms and have primary PCI available 24/7 every day of the year. As required to meet the criteria of the accreditation designation, they comply with standard Chest Pain Center protocols. These facilities also maintain a “No Diversion Policy” for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest patients.
“Medical Center Hospital has demonstrated its commitment to providing Ector County and surrounding communities with excellent heart care,” Dr. Deepak L. Bhatt, chair of the ACC Accreditation Management Board, said in a news release. “ACC Accreditation Services is proud to award Medical Center Hospital with Chest Pain Center with Primary PCI Accreditation.”
“With great honor, we receive this recognition of Chest Pain Center with Primary PCI Accreditation from the ACC,” said Rene Rodriguez, MCH Divisional Director of Cardiovascular Services. “As a Cardiovascular Service Line at Medical Center Health System, we strive to provide the best care with the intent of the best outcomes for our patients of the Permian Basin and surrounding communities served.”
Hospitals receiving Chest Pain Center with Primary PCI 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.
Facilities that achieve 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.
