Acute Stroke Program

The time between the onset of stroke symptoms and treatment is critical for recovery. Methodist Hospitals works with and trains EMS personnel so that they can identify and transport stroke patients to the Emergency Department as quickly as possible. Through coordination of efforts, a team of Emergency Department physicians dedicated to stroke patients initiates the most appropriate care path within 20 minutes of the patient’s arrival.

Dedicated Units

Patients at both Methodist Hospitals campuses receive skilled care from nurses who are specially trained to care for stroke patients. Our dedicated Neuro Intensive Care Unit (NICU) provides expert care to neurologically impaired or unstable, acutely ill, trauma patients, and patients on medication drips that require titration and frequent monitoring.

Prevention and Community Education

Methodist Hospitals is actively involved in preventing stroke through community outreach. The centerpiece of this effort is our monthly seminar series conducted at our hospital campuses and throughout the year at Methodist-sponsored health fairs and other locations. To register for a seminar, call 1-888-909-DOCS (3627)

Seminars include:

• blood pressure check
• carotid bruit and peripheral artery disease screening
• education about stroke symptoms, risk factors and lifestyle changes to reduce risk
• distribution of risk factor and stroke screening support materials

Specialized Training & Equipment

The greater array of stroke interventions available at Methodist makes us the destination of choice for stroke treatment in Northwest Indiana, especially for patients who are more than three hours past the onset of symptoms. Our biplane catheterization technology can extend the window of treatment for many patients to 24 hours, allowing them to regain vital functional abilities.