Subdivision 1. Comprehensive stroke center. A hospital meets the criteria for a comprehensive stroke center if the hospital has been certified as a comprehensive stroke center by the joint commission or another nationally recognized accreditation entity and the hospital participates in the Minnesota stroke registry program.

Subd. 2. Primary stroke center. A hospital meets the criteria for a primary stroke center if the hospital has been certified as a primary stroke center by the joint commission or another nationally recognized accreditation entity and the hospital participates in the Minnesota stroke registry program.

Subd. 3. Acute stroke ready hospital. A hospital meets the criteria for an acute stroke ready hospital if the hospital has the following elements of an acute stroke ready hospital:

(1) an acute stroke team available or on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week;

(2) written stroke protocols, including triage, stabilization of vital functions, initial diagnostic tests, and use of medications;

(3) a written plan and letter of cooperation with emergency medical services regarding triage and communication that are consistent with regional patient care procedures;

(4) emergency department personnel who are trained in diagnosing and treating acute stroke;

(5) the capacity to complete basic laboratory tests, electrocardiograms, and chest x-rays 24 hours a day, seven days a week;

(6) the capacity to perform and interpret brain injury imaging studies 24 hours a day, seven days a week;

(7) written protocols that detail available emergent therapies and reflect current treatment guidelines, which include performance measures and are revised at least annually;

(8) a neurosurgery coverage plan, call schedule, and a triage and transportation plan;

(9) transfer protocols and agreements for stroke patients; and

(10) a designated medical director with experience and expertise in acute stroke care.

History: 2013 c 108 art 12 s 31; 2014 c 291 art 6 s 8,9