The Joint Commission reports high interest in new certification program for Comprehensive Stroke Centers.

Hospitals with the advanced resources and personnel capable of providing state-of-the-art care for the most complex types of stroke can now seek certification from The Joint Commission (TJC) as a Comprehensive Stroke Center. The move follows recommendations by the Brain Attack Coalition, an expert panel that established criteria for Comprehensive Stroke Centers. The concept is designed to strengthen a network of stroke care in the country similar to the system in place for trauma care. The certification process includes a two-day, on-site evaluation by TJC reviewers. Experts anticipate that about 200 medical centers will become certified as Comprehensive Stroke Centers. Comprehensive Stroke Centers should serve as referral centers for the more than 900 Primary Stroke Centers as well as other hospitals that are not equipped to care for complex stroke patients.