The American College of Cardiology (ACC) recognized Firelands Regional Medical Center for its expertise and commitment in treating patients with heart failure. Firelands achieved Heart Failure Accreditation based on on-site review of their associate’s ability to assess, diagnose and treat patients with heart failure through pre-hospital care, early stabilization, acute care, transitional care and clinical quality measures.

“This accreditation shows how well-prepared we are when a patient with heart failure comes to Firelands,” said Firelands Senior Director of Quality Sheri Johnson, MHA, BSN, RN. In a given year, Firelands will care for up to 400 patients with heart failure.

Heart failure is a chronic and progressive condition where the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs for blood and oxygen. Hospitals that follow an evidence-based and process-driven approach to managing heart failure have been able to decrease time to treatment.

They’re also able to identify and predict high-risk patients, shortening the amount of time a patient spends at the hospital, and less readmissions.

“Firelands Regional Medical Center has demonstrated its commitment to providing their region with excellent heart care,” said Deepak L. Bhatt, M.D., MPH, FACC, chair of the ACC Accreditation Management Board. “ACC Accreditation Services is proud to award Firelands with Heart Failure Accreditation.”

About the American College of Cardiology. The American College of Cardiology envisions a world where innovation and knowledge optimize cardiovascular care and outcomes. As the professional home for the entire cardiovascular care team, the mission of the College and its 54,000 members is to transform cardiovascular care and to improve heart health. The ACC bestows credentials upon cardiovascular professionals who meet stringent qualifications and leads in the formation of health policy, standards and guidelines. The College also provides professional medical education, disseminates cardiovascular research through its world-renowned JACC Journals, operates national registries to measure and improve care, and offers cardiovascular accreditation to hospitals and institutions. For more information, visit acc.org.