About Stroke Care

Thanks to new treatments and technology, stroke survivors have a better chance at recovery than ever before.

Our stroke program offers a team of professionals who provide expert care throughout treatment, recovery and rehabilitation. After a stroke, our goal is to help each patient return to the highest quality of life, as quickly as possible.

By recognizing stroke symptoms, you can save a life. It's important to act F.A.S.T.

F - FACE
Ask the person to smile.
Does one side of the face droop?

A - ARM
Ask the person to raise both arms.
Does one arm drift downward?

S - SPEECH
Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase.
Does the speech sound slurred or strange?

T - TIME
If you observe any of these signs, it’s time to
call 9-1-1.

Primary Stroke Center certification

Three HealthEast hospitals hold a Gold Seal of Approval for stroke care by The Joint Commission.

To earn the certification, we demonstrated how our program follows national standards and guidelines that can greatly improve outcomes for stroke patients.

Primary Stroke Center Certification was awarded to:

• St. John's Hospital
• St. Joseph's Hospital
• Woodwinds Health Campus

HealthEast is proud to be the first multi-site health care system in Minnesota to receive this distinction.

What is a stroke?

A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that brings oxygen and nutrients to the brain becomes clogged or bursts, stopping the blood supply to a portion of the brain.

When blood can't reach an area of the brain, abilities and functions controlled by that part of the brain might be impaired or lost. If not treated immediately, a stroke can lead to brain damage and disability.

Unlike a heart attack, symptoms of a stroke may not be painful. And often, the warning signs are easy to explain away. But symptoms of a stroke (or "brain attack") should be taken just as seriously.

It's critical to recognize the warning signs and and call 911 immediately.