The Riverside Heart & Vascular Institute has been acknowledged by the American College of Cardiology (ACC) for its expertise in treating patients with chest pain. The institute was awarded the Chest Pain Center Accreditation following a comprehensive onsite evaluation of its staff's capabilities in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating potential heart attack patients.
"This award is a tangible reminder of Riverside’s commitment to provide comprehensive heart care and heart education to our community," stated Phil Kambic, President and CEO of Riverside Healthcare. "Our team is proud to continue providing advanced, trusted care to the communities we serve."
Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicate that over 730,000 Americans experience a heart attack annually. The primary symptom for both genders is chest pain or discomfort, though women may exhibit atypical symptoms. Additional symptoms include tingling or discomfort in various body parts, shortness of breath, cold sweat, unusual tiredness, feelings akin to heartburn, nausea or vomiting, sudden dizziness, and fainting.
Hospitals achieving ACC Chest Pain Center Accreditation have shown exceptional competency in managing patients with heart attack symptoms. These hospitals have optimized their processes from admission through post-discharge care and lifestyle change recommendations.
"Riverside Heart & Vascular Institute has demonstrated its commitment to providing the Kankakee and surrounding communities with excellent heart care," said Deepak L. Bhatt, MD, MPH, FACC, chair of the ACC Accreditation Management Board. "ACC Accreditation Services is proud to award Riverside Heart & Vascular Institute with Chest Pain Center Accreditation."
To receive this accreditation from the ACC, hospitals must engage in a detailed clinical process involving gap analysis completion; examination of care variances; action plan development; rigorous onsite review; and monitoring for sustained success. Improved patient care methods include streamlined processes and adoption of best practices for handling signs and symptoms of a heart attack.
The American College of Cardiology is recognized globally as a leader in transforming cardiovascular care since 1949. It provides professional medical education worldwide and plays a significant role in forming health policy standards and guidelines.