Subdivision 1. Comprehensive stroke center.
A hospital meets the criteria for a comprehensive stroke center if the hospital has been certified as a comprehensive stroke center by the joint commission or another nationally recognized accreditation entity and the hospital participates in the Minnesota stroke registry program.
Subd. 2. Primary stroke center.
A hospital meets the criteria for a primary stroke center if the hospital has been certified as a primary stroke center by the joint commission or another nationally recognized accreditation entity and the hospital participates in the Minnesota stroke registry program.
Subd. 2a. Thrombectomy-capable stroke center.
A hospital meets the criteria for a thrombectomy-capable stroke center if the hospital has been certified as a thrombectomy-capable stroke center by the joint commission or another nationally recognized accreditation entity, or is a primary stroke center that is not certified as a thrombectomy-based capable stroke center but the hospital has attained a level of stroke care distinction by offering mechanical endovascular therapies and has been certified by a department approved certifying body that is a nationally recognized guidelines-based organization.
Subd. 3. Acute stroke ready hospital.
A hospital meets the criteria for an acute stroke ready hospital if the hospital has the following elements of an acute stroke ready hospital:
(1) an acute stroke team available or on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week;
(2) written stroke protocols, including triage, stabilization of vital functions, initial diagnostic tests, and use of medications;
(3) a written plan and letter of cooperation with emergency medical services regarding triage and communication that are consistent with regional patient care procedures;
(4) emergency department personnel who are trained in diagnosing and treating acute stroke;
(5) the capacity to complete basic laboratory tests, electrocardiograms, and chest x-rays 24 hours a day, seven days a week;
(6) the capacity to perform and interpret brain injury imaging studies 24 hours a day, seven days a week;
(7) written protocols that detail available emergent therapies and reflect current treatment guidelines, which include performance measures and are revised at least annually;
(8) a neurosurgery coverage plan, call schedule, and a triage and transportation plan;
(9) transfer protocols and agreements for stroke patients; and
(10) a designated medical director with experience and expertise in acute stroke care.