Lower Keys Medical Center awarded Primary Stroke Certification from The Joint Commission
2/28/2026
Lower Keys Medical Center has again earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® and the American Stroke Association’s Heart-Check mark for Primary Stroke Center Certification.
Lower Keys Medical Center underwent a rigorous recertification process that included an unannounced onsite review on January 20, 2026. During the visit, a team of Joint Commission reviewers evaluated compliance with related certification standards including program management and delivering and facilitating clinical care. Joint Commission standards are developed in consultation with health care experts and providers, measurement experts and patients. The reviewers also conducted onsite observations and interviews.
“Primary Stroke Center Certification recognizes healthcare organizations committed to striving for excellence and fostering continuous improvement in patient safety and quality of care,” says Ken Grubbs, DNP, MBA, R.N., executive vice president of Accreditation and Certification Operations and chief nursing officer, The Joint Commission. “We commend Lower Keys Medical Center for using The Joint Commission certification process to reduce variation in clinical processes and to strengthen its clinical program to drive safer, higher quality and more compassionate care for individuals served.”
“We congratulate Lower Keys Medical Center for this outstanding achievement,” says Nancy Brown, chief executive officer, the American Stroke Association. “This certification reflects its commitment to providing the highest quality of care for stroke patients.”
Drew Bigby, chief executive officer, Lower Keys Medical Center, applauded hospital employees, saying “I am proud to work with colleagues who prioritize quality care, embrace best practices and adhere to precise standards of care that have been proven to provide the best outcomes for patients experiencing stroke.”
The certification requirements and processes entail creating a cohesive clinical team, demonstrating a consistent approach to care, reducing variation and the risk of error, and organizing the healthcare team across the continuum of care.
For more information, please visit The Joint Commission website.
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