(HOUSTON – September 21, 2015) – St. Joseph Medical Center (SJMC) has been recognized in the US News & World Report Best Hospitals edition for its achievement with “Get With The Guidelines®-Stroke,” the award-winning quality improvement program from the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association.

SJMC received a “Gold-Plus Achievement,” which is the highest award level, and recognition for two or more consecutive years of 85 percent or higher adherence on all achievement measures applicable, and at least 75 percent or higher adherence with five or more select quality measure in stroke.

American Heart Association’s Kate Ramos, director of quality and systems improvement, sent congratulations to SJMC on the recognition.

“We know that when hospitals apply the most up-to-date, evidence-based treatment guidelines for coronary artery disease, heart failure and stroke, patient outcomes improve,” said Ramos. “On behalf of the American Heart Association and the American Stroke Association, thank you for contributing to our mission of building healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke!”