Bothwell awarded Acute Stroke Ready Accreditation from Joint Commission

Bothwell Regional Health Center has earned Acute Stroke Ready Accreditation from Joint Commission, an independent, evidence-based standards setting organization that sets the benchmark for safe, high-quality patient care through health care accreditation. This accomplishment formally recognizes Bothwell’s ongoing commitment to meeting rigorous performance standards and delivering the safest, highest quality care to its patients.

Bothwell underwent a rigorous survey in December 2025. During the visit, a Joint Commission surveyor assessed compliance across key areas such as 24/7 acute stroke team availability, coordination with Emergency Medical Services (EMS) for pre-hospital notification and routing, 24/7 diagnostic capability (including CT and necessary lab testing), written transfer protocols for higher levels of stroke care, staff stroke education and training, performance measurement and quality improvement.

“Earning Acute Stroke Ready Certification from the Joint Commission reflects the discipline and teamwork our staff brings to stroke care every day,” said Lori Wightman, Bothwell CEO. “When a stroke happens, minutes matter, and this recognition reinforces our commitment to rapid evaluation, evidence-based treatment and seamless coordination when higher levels of care are needed.”

The Joint Commission surveyor conducted on-site observations and interviews to identify performance strengths and opportunities for continued improvement. With decades of expertise and a data-driven accreditation process, Joint Commission helps ensure health care organizations adhere to leading quality and safety practices, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and commitment to better patient care.

“Joint Commission congratulates Bothwell for achieving accreditation by demonstrating its focus on delivering safe and effective care of the highest quality and value,” says Ken Grubbs, DNP, MBA, RN, Joint Commission executive vice president of Accreditation and Certification Operations and chief nursing officer. “Through the accreditation process, we worked closely with Bothwell to enable and affirm the highest standards of health care quality and patient safety. Together, we are elevating care for all patients, and we appreciate their collaboration throughout this process.”