OLEAN, N.Y. — Olean General Hospital (OGH), a Kaleida Health facility, announced it has received certification from DNV as a Primary Stroke Center.

OGH representatives said the certification affirms the hospital’s readiness to handle a full range of stroke-related medical problems.

“This certification lets our community know we have the resources and commitment to provide the best possible stroke care,” said FrancesMarie Perez, nurse stroke coordinator. “It’s a combination of the right equipment, personnel and training to quickly assess and treat strokes. This includes the ability to efficiently transfer patients in the rare instances they require treatment beyond our capabilities. Achieving certification validates all the effort we have put into this program and to ensuring the health and safety of our patients.”

The DNV Primary Stroke Center Certification, based on standards set forth by the Brain Attack Coalition and the American Stroke Association, affirms that the medical center addresses the full spectrum of stroke care — diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation and education — and establishes clear metrics to evaluate outcomes. “Achieving certification shows commitment to excellence,” said Kelly Proctor, president of DNV Healthcare USA Inc. “And it helps demonstrate to your community that you are performing at the highest level.”

According to the American Stroke Association, stroke is a leading cause of death, killing nearly 130,000 people each year, and is a leading cause of serious, long-term adult disability. Because stroke or “brain attack” affects blood flow to the brain, rapid and effective treatment can save lives and provide the best chance of limiting the extent of long-term damage.