Intermountain Health St. James Hospital in Butte, Montana, Earns Primary Stroke Certification from The Joint Commission
Intermountain Health St. James Hospital in Butte, Montana, has earned Primary Stroke Certification from The Joint Commission, recognizing the hospital’s commitment to providing high‑quality, timely care for patients experiencing a stroke.
The certification follows a rigorous onsite review by The Joint Commission, which evaluated Intermountain St. James Hospital’s stroke program, clinical processes, and readiness to deliver coordinated, evidence‑based care.
This achievement also marks the hospital’s advancement from an Acute Stroke Ready Hospital to a Primary Stroke Center, expanding access to specialized stroke care for Butte and the surrounding region.
“Earning Primary Stroke Certification is a significant milestone for St. James and a testament to the exceptional care our caregivers provide every day,” said Karen Costello, president of Intermountain Health St. James Hospital. “The Joint Commission’s review confirms the strength of our stroke program and our readiness to deliver high‑quality care when it matters most. I’m incredibly proud of the entire team for their expertise, teamwork, and commitment to our community.”
Primary Stroke Certification recognizes hospitals that meet national standards for rapid stroke diagnosis, timely treatment, and coordinated, evidence‑based care.
For patients, it means faster care when minutes matter most and improved outcomes for those experiencing a stroke in the community.
“Stroke Ready Certification recognizes healthcare organizations committed to striving for excellence and fostering continuous improvement in patient safety and quality of care,” said Ken Grubbs, DNP, MBA, RN, executive vice president of Accreditation and Certification Operations and chief nursing officer with The Joint Commission. “We commend Intermountain St. James Hospital 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.”
Stroke is a leading cause of death and long‑term disability in the United States.
Having a Primary Stroke Center in the community helps ensure patients receive faster diagnosis, timely treatment, and coordinated care that can improve outcomes and reduce the impact of stroke.