AtlantiCare, already an established cornerstone of advanced neurological care in Southern New Jersey, elevated the area’s healthcare landscape thanks to its powerful partnership with Global Neurosciences Institute (GNI). Together, this partnership brings to the region the largest team of dual-trained, nationally recognized cerebrovascular neurosurgeons. It features 24/7 neurological care, along with the region’s only Joint Commission-Designated Comprehensive Stroke Center and provides our patients with access to state-of-the-art neurological treatments and advanced surgical options.
Stroke Care: Why Rapid Response Saves Lives
According to GNI’s Erol Veznedaroglu, MD, FACS, FAANS, FAHA (“Dr. Vez”), one of the most experienced cerebrovascular neurosurgeons in the country, when it comes to stroke care, time is of the essence. Strokes are a leading cause of long-term disability and death, but rapid response and immediate treatment can dramatically improve outcomes. AtlantiCare’s partnership with GNI enables the team to offer faster, more effective interventions 24/7. By integrating GNI’s specialized surgical skills, patients in Southern New Jersey now have access to life-saving treatments and technologies previously available only at major academic medical centers.
Dr. Vez and AtlantiCare’s stroke team operate on the principle of “time is brain”—every minute that a stroke goes untreated, millions of brain cells are at risk. With a highly trained team on standby 24/7, patients experiencing stroke symptoms receive immediate assessment, diagnosis, and treatment. This rapid response not only saves lives but also significantly reduces the chance of permanent disability.
Knowing the Signs of a Stroke
Recognizing the signs of a stroke and acting quickly is crucial to preventing long-term damage. According to Dr. Vez, the most effective way to remember the signs is by using the acronym BE FAST:
· Balance: Sudden loss of balance or coordination
· Eyes: Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
· Face: Facial drooping, usually on one side
· Arms: Weakness or numbness in one arm
· Speech: Slurred or confused speech
· Time: If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to call 911 immediately
Even if the symptoms seem to go away after a few minutes, it’s essential to seek medical attention right away, and dial 9-1-1. Quick action can lead to treatments including clot-busting medications, which are most effective within the first few hours after a stroke begins.
Why Acting Fast is Critical
The brain is incredibly sensitive to a lack of blood flow, and every second counts when someone is having a stroke. Without immediate medical intervention, parts of the brain may be irreversibly damaged, leading to physical, cognitive, and emotional impairments. Quick treatment, however, can prevent this damage and improve the likelihood of a full recovery.
AtlantiCare’s collaboration with GNI ensures that patients have access to advanced treatments like endovascular thrombectomy, where a catheter is inserted in the upper leg or hand and is navigated to the brain to remove a blood clot. This cutting-edge procedure, along with rapid diagnostic imaging and expert care, is essential for reducing the devastating effects of stroke.
With GNI’s extensive experience in the stroke field, we gain valuable expertise in collaborating with EMS providers. Our EMS teams communicate directly with emergency department, critical care, and neurosurgery physicians to begin assessment and treatment before the patient even arrives. Additionally, the hospital team is alerted and prepared for immediate treatment upon the patient’s arrival.
The Importance of AtlantiCare’s Stroke Program
AtlantiCare’s Joint Commission-Designated Comprehensive Stroke program is more than just about treatment—it’s about prevention, education, and long-term care. Through community outreach, the team at AtlantiCare is committed to educating our community about stroke risk factors, such as high blood pressure, smoking, and diabetes, while empowering people to take control of their health. Further, GNI is proud to be an American Heart Association (AHA) training center, offering Advanced Stroke Life Support (ASLS) education to EMS squads, First Responders, and AtlantiCare clinical staff.
In partnership with GNI, AtlantiCare is leading the charge in stroke prevention and treatment, combining expert knowledge, state-of-the-art technology, training, and a commitment to patient-centered care. Together, they are saving lives and improving outcomes for stroke patients across Southern New Jersey.
For more information or to make an appointment, call 609-572-8600 or visit atlanticare.org/Neuro.
