Delta Health System-The Medical Center Receives 2025 Silver Recognition for Excellence in STEMI Heart Attack Care

Iris Stacker, Chief Executive Officer of Delta Health System, announced that the hospital has received the American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines® – Coronary Artery Disease STEMI Silver recognition for its outstanding commitment to providing rapid, research-based care to patients experiencing ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), a severe and life-threatening type of heart attack.

Each year, approximately 285,000 people in the United States experience a STEMI, which is caused by a complete blockage of blood flow to the heart. Prompt treatment is essential to restore blood flow, limit damage, and improve outcomes.

According to the American Heart Association (AHA), time is critical in a STEMI because rapid treatment restores blood flow, reduces heart muscle damage, and improves survival rates. “Time is muscle. The faster a blocked artery is opened, the greater the chance of saving heart muscle and preventing permanent damage.”

The STEMI Center award is given to hospitals that consistently follow the American Heart Association’s most current, research-based protocols for the treatment of STEMI heart attacks, ensuring high-quality care for every patient.

“We are honored to be recognized by the American Heart Association for our commitment to excellence in cardiac care,” said Stacker. “This achievement highlights the hard work and dedication of our emergency and cardiac teams who act quickly and skillfully to save lives. Through the Mission: Lifeline program, we are applying proven protocols that give heart attack patients the best possible chance at recovery.”

Scott Lloyd, Director of Cath Lab/Cardiac Services, said, “The Medical Center is the only heart attack (STEMI) receiving facility in the region. Our dedicated team provides 24-hour, around-the-clock care for heart attacks and peripheral vascular emergencies. Every minute counts when someone is having a heart attack.”