Primary Stroke Center

Mission Statement

Vista Health System's Primary Stroke Center is accredited by the Joint Commission and is committed to providing the communities we serve with rapid diagnosis and FAST stroke treatment. Our compassionate team of multidisciplinary specialists and board-certified physicians collaborate to ensure optimal health and quality of life to stroke survivors and caregivers throughout our comprehensive program. 

Stroke: What You Need To Know
Stroke, also called brain attack, occurs when blood flow to the brain is disrupted. It is the third largest cause of death, ranking behind diseases of the heart and all forms of cancer. Almost 80 percent of strokes are preventable. According to the National Stroke Association (NSA), it is important to learn the three R's of stroke:

• Reduce the risk.
• Recognize the symptoms.
• Respond by calling 911 (or your local ambulance service).

Symptoms of Stroke
While there are common signs and symptoms of stroke, each individual may experience them differently. If you think you may be experiencing any of these symptoms, call 911 immediately. Signs and symptoms of stroke may include:

• Loss of vision
• Numbness of the face
• Dizziness
• Severe headaches

Visit our health resource library to learn more about the different types of strokes and how you can recognize the warning signs.

Risk Factors of Stroke

Know Your Risk Factors
There are steps that you can take to reduce the risk of a stroke. Know your risk factors, including the ones that you may be able to manage. Risk factors of stroke include:

• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Excess alcohol consumption
• Family history of stroke
• Heart disease

Take our stroke quiz to see how much you know!

Vista's Certified Primary Stroke Center
Stroke is an emergency and should be treated as such. Vista Medical Center East is Northern Lake County's first hospital to be accredited by the Joint Commission as a Primary Stroke Center. This means that our patients can expect:

• Early assessment of stroke symptoms
• Rapid diagnosis and treatment
• Individualized stroke prevention and stroke treatment plans
• Comprehensive rehabilitation and physical medicine services

Meet the Team
Emergency Response Team
EMS staff is trained to recognize and evaluate the early onset of stroke, communicate immediately with ER personnel and provide quick transportation to the ER

Stroke Alert Team
Includes ER nursing staff, physicians, respiratory care, laboratory technicians, CT technicians, and other healthcare professionals

Neurologists
Board Certified Neurologists with more than 20 years of experience

Neurosurgeons
Board Certified

Advanced Diagnostic Services
CT Scan, MRI and Laboratory services available 24/7

Dedicated Stroke Unit
Specialized unit for acute inpatient stroke care

Acute Inpatient Rehabilitation Unit
Post hospitalization care, including speech, occupation and physical therapy services

Discharge Planning
Social Services, Care Management and Home Health

Resources

Stroke Articles

Strokes and Heart Attacks: What's the Difference?

For Young Women, What's Your Stroke Risk?

Six Symptoms You Should Never Ignore

Stopping Blood Pressure Drugs Risks a Stroke

Support Services

Vista Health System is proud to partner with SSEEO (Stroke Survivors Empowering Each Other). SSEEO is a patient supported stroke advocacy group that provides support, education, and resources to stroke survivors and their families. Resources available through SSEEO include:

-Peer visitation program
-Toll-free telephone support group
-Local Illinois support group listings on SSEEO website
-Quarterly newsletter...and much more!

Events

Check our community calendar and RSVP for upcoming events such as diabetes classes, weight management seminars, headache clinics and health screenings.