Bluegrass Community Hospital Recognized for Excellence with ACC Chest Pain Center Re-Accreditation

VERSAILLES, Ky. (August 10, 2023) The American College of Cardiology has recognized Bluegrass Community Hospital for its demonstrated expertise and commitment in treating patients with chest pain. Bluegrass Community Hospital was awarded Chest Pain Center Re-Accreditation in July based on rigorous onsite evaluation of the staff’s ability to evaluate, diagnose and treat patients who may be experiencing a heart attack.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 730,000 Americans suffer a heart attack each year. The most common symptom of a heart attack for both men and women is chest pain or discomfort. However, women are more likely to have atypical symptoms. Other heart attack symptoms include, but are not limited to, tingling or discomfort in one or both arms, back, shoulder, neck or jaw, shortness of breath, cold sweat, unusual tiredness, heartburn-like feeling, nausea or vomiting, sudden dizziness and fainting.

Hospitals that have earned ACC Chest Pain Center Accreditation have proven exceptional competency in treating patients with heart attack symptoms. They have streamlined their systems from admission to evaluation to diagnosis and treatment all the way through to appropriate post-discharge care and recommendations and assistance in patient lifestyle changes.

“When seconds count, you need to go to the nearest emergency room. We are fortunate to have qualified staff at Bluegrass Community Hospital committed to treating symptoms of a potential heart attack,” said David Steitz, Chief Executive Officer of Bluegrass Community Hospital. “If you or a loved one is experiencing chest pain, be confident that your local healthcare team is equipped to recognize and treat your symptoms.”

“Bluegrass Community Hospital has demonstrated its commitment to providing Versailles, Kentucky with excellent heart care,” said Deepak L. Bhatt, MD, MPH, FACC, chair of the ACC Accreditation Management Board. “ACC Accreditation Services is proud to award Bluegrass Community Hospital with Chest Pain Center Re-Accreditation.”

Hospitals receiving Chest Pain Center Re-Accreditation from the ACC must take part in a multi-faceted clinical process that involves: completing a gap analysis; examining variances of care, developing an action plan; a rigorous onsite review; and monitoring for sustained success. Improved methods and strategies of caring for patients include streamlining processes, implementing of guidelines and standards, and adopting best practices in the care of patients experiencing the signs and symptoms of a heart attack. Facilities that achieve accreditation