Novant Health Receives A+ in Stroke Awareness
We’re honored to announce some big news: The American Heart Association (AHA) has recognized Novant Health as a top achiever in exceptional patient outcomes for patients experiencing heart failure or strokes. This prestigious gold-plus recognition in two critical areas of cardiovascular and neurological health reflects our deep dedication to the outcomes and experiences of our patients, as well as the world-class expertise of our medical teams.
Proud to Serve the Community
At Novant Health, we know giving our community the care they deserve is a team effort. Every neurologist, nurse, emergency responder, and office manager is part of this incredible achievement. Dr. Jeffrey Beecher, Interim Institute Leader for Neurosciences at Novant Health, expressed gratitude to all Novant Health employees, saying the award shows “our team is doing a great job taking care of these stroke patients. It’s showing us that we’re doing exactly what we thought we were doing, which is a great job for our community.”

He went on to emphasize that this recognition belongs to the entire neurology team, acknowledging that exceptional stroke care requires seamless coordination between emergency responders, neurologists, nurses, and support staff.
To Dr. Beecher, the gold-plus award for stroke awareness validates the comprehensive approach his team takes in treating stroke patients, highlighting Novant Health’s commitment to rapid response protocols, evidence-based treatment approaches, and comprehensive patient care.

This team-based approach ensures that stroke patients receive the fastest, most effective treatment possible during those critical first hours when time truly equals brain function. This recognition is a reflection of improved patient outcomes and demonstrates the team’s dedication to staying current with the latest stroke treatment protocols.
Heart and Head Healthy
The dual recognition extends beyond stroke care, with Novant Health earning the same status in treatment of patients experiencing heart failure. John Rommel, Director of Heart Failure for Novant Heart and Vascular, noted that this achievement represents the culmination of long-term efforts to elevate their cardiac care standards.
“It’s a great way to get rewarded for the hard work that so many of our teammates are doing on a day-to-day basis, providing great heart failure care in the hospital and in the community,” says Rommel.
This comprehensive approach to cardiovascular health (encompassing both heart failure management and stroke prevention and treatment) is a clear demonstration of Novant Health’s holistic understanding of both cardiac and neurological care. Having excellence in both areas positions Novant Health as a leader in comprehensive cardiovascular care.
The gold plus recognitions just underscore how crucial it is to ensure patients receive exceptional care delivered by dedicated healthcare professionals. Physicians who understand that behind every medical case is a person deserving of the highest quality treatment and compassion will always achieve the best outcomes.