East Central Reporter

Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center has received the American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines Stroke Rural Recognition Silver Award. The award highlights the hospital's efforts to deliver high-quality stroke care in a rural environment.

The recognition points to Sarah Bush Lincoln’s use of evidence-based treatment guidelines designed to improve results for stroke patients living outside urban areas. According to national data, people in rural communities often experience higher risks from stroke due to challenges in accessing timely and specialized care.

“Our team works diligently to ensure stroke patients receive expert, timely care from the moment they arrive—regardless of where they live,” said Fatima Alao, MD, neurologist at Sarah Bush Lincoln. “This award underscores our commitment to improving stroke outcomes in the communities we serve.”

The American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines initiative evaluates hospitals on performance metrics such as prompt administration of clot-busting drugs, patient transfer processes, and assessments specific to stroke care.

“This award is a reflection of our team’s expertise, dedication and relentless focus on quality care,” said SBL President and CEO Kim Uphoff. “We’re honored to be recognized nationally for the work we do every day to give our patients the best chance at recovery.”