Stroke Center

The New York State Department of Health has designated Putnam Hospital Center a Stroke Center, signifying that it has the specialized staff and diagnostic equipment necessary to make a swift and accurate diagnosis of stroke and to begin treatment with clot-busting medications when indicated.   

Research has shown that patients treated at hospitals with a Stroke Center have reduced morbidity and mortality, fewer complications, improved long-term outcomes and increased patient satisfaction.   

Stroke is a type of cerebrovascular disease that occurs when the vessels carrying oxygen rich blood to the brain become blocked by clots, or burst causing bleeding.  As a result, the brain is deprived of blood and oxygen, and brain cells begin to die.

Time is essential in recognizing the symptoms of a stroke, making the correct diagnosis and beginning treatment.   Recognition as a Stroke Center by the New York State Department of Health indicates that Putnam Hospital Center is consistently providing stroke patients with the appropriate interventions at the appropriate times in order to maximize their potential to recover.