Nationally Recognized for Cardiovascular Care

The American Heart Association presents outpatient program achievement awards for proven dedication to ensuring patients have access to best practices that reduce risk of heart disease and stroke.

St. Luke’s has received three American Heart Association outpatient program achievement awards in recognition for its commitment to reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke by improving high cholesterol, Type 2 diabetes and blood pressure management. The awards recognize a commitment to following the latest evidence- and science-based care guidelines.

Nearly half of all adults in the U.S. have some form of cardiovascular disease, including heart attack, stroke or heart failure. High cholesterol, Type 2 diabetes and uncontrolled high blood pressure are leading risk factors for cardiovascular disease, but with timely diagnosis, research-based treatment and education, these conditions can be managed.

“We are proud to be recognized by the American Heart Association for our focus on Type 2 diabetes, cholesterol, high blood pressure management and care,” said Linda Gately, St. Luke’s Vice President of Business Services. “These programs help us to put the science of the latest science-backed guidelines to work improving the lives of our patients.”

The outpatient achievement award programs put the expertise of the American Heart Association to work for health care organizations nationwide, helping ensure the care provided to patients is aligned with the latest evidence- and research-based guidelines. St. Luke’s was recognized after demonstrating how their organization has committed to improving risk factor management for patients, receiving the following achievement awards:

• The American Heart Association’s Check. Change. Control. Cholesterol™ Gold
• The American Heart Association’s Target: Type 2 Diabetes℠ Gold
• Target: BP™ Gold+ recognition jointly presented by the American Heart Association and the American Medical Association.

Among the step taken to improve patient outcomes, St. Luke’s implemented key initiatives, such as in-office A1c testing at primary care practices, proactive outreach to patients with elevated blood pressure or A1c levels and updated protocols for managing at-home readings.

“Heart disease and stroke remain the leading causes of death for Americans, and addressing Type 2 diabetes, cholesterol and blood pressure management is key for better cardiovascular health,” said Howard Haft, M.D., MMM, CPE, FACPE, member of the American Heart Association's National Quality Oversight Committee. “The American Heart Association is pleased to recognize St. Luke’s for its commitment to managing patient risk factors.”