The Medical Center at Bowling Green nationally recognized for its commitment to providing high-quality stroke care

Published July 14, 2026

The Medical Center at Bowling Green has received the American Heart Association’s (AHA) Get With The Guidelines^® – Stroke GoldPlus quality achievement award for its commitment to ensuring stroke patients receive the most appropriate treatment according to nationally recognized, research-based guidelines, ultimately leading to more lives saved and reduced disability.

Stroke is the No. 5 cause of death and a leading cause of disability in the U.S. A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or bursts. When that happens, part of the brain cannot get the blood and oxygen it needs, so brain cells die. Early stroke detection and treatment are key to improving survival, minimizing disability, and accelerating recovery times.

“We are incredibly proud to receive this recognition, because it reflects the hard work, dedication, and teamwork our team members display each and every day,” said Jen Meffert, Clinical Manager of Neurology & Stroke Program at The Medical Center at Bowling Green. Achievement of this recognition requires extensive collaboration across our multidisciplinary team. Every team member involved in a stroke patient’s care plays an important role in reducing the impact of stroke. In stroke care, Time is Brain, and our team is dedicated to acting quickly to provide each patient the best chance for recovery. We hope that this award gives our community confidence that if they or a loved one experiences a stroke, our team members are equipped with the resources and knowledge to provide excellent care when every minute matters. “

Get With The Guidelines puts the expertise of the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association to work for hospitals nationwide, helping ensure patient care is aligned with the latest evidence- and research-based guidelines. Get With The Guidelines – Stroke is an in-hospital program for improving stroke care by promoting consistent adherence to these guidelines, which can minimize the long-term effects of a stroke and even prevent death.

Each year, program participants qualify for the award by demonstrating how their organization has committed to providing quality care for stroke patients. In addition to following treatment guidelines, Get With The Guidelines participants also educate patients to help them manage their health and recovery at home.

The Medical Center at Bowling Green also received the American Heart Association’s Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll award. To qualify for this recognition, hospitals must aim to ensure patients with Type 2 diabetes, who might be at higher risk for complications, receive the most up-to-date, evidence-based care when hospitalized due to stroke.