Member News

Penn Medicine Lancaster General Hospital (LGH) received the American Heart Association’s (AHA) Get With The Guidelines^® - AFib  Gold Quality Achievement Award for its commitment to managing atrial fibrillation (AFib), ultimately helping to reduce patients’ stroke risk. Gold is the highest possible honor from the American Heart Association’s Get With the Guidelines achievement awards. 

AFib affects millions of Americans, often leading to heart-related complications and an increase by 5x the risk for a stroke.  However, proper care and treatment can reduce these risks.

The Get With The Guidelines – AFib quality achievement award is earned by hospitals that demonstrate a commitment to treating patients according to the most up-to-date research-based guidelines as outlined by the American Heart Association. The recognition highlights the expertise and partnerships of the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association with hospitals nationwide, helping ensure patient care is aligned with the latest evidence- and research-based guidelines. 

“LGH is committed to delivering the very best patient care by adhering to the latest in treatment guidelines,” said Tim Zellers, executive director, Heart & Vascular Institute with Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health. “The AHA  team evaluates our performance in following the Get With The Guidelines recommendations, which research has shown can help patients improve their quality of life while living with AFib.” 

Each year, program participants qualify for the recognition by demonstrating how their organization is committed to providing quality AFib care. In addition to following treatment guidelines, hospitals that participate in the program also educate patients to help them manage their AFib at home.

“We are pleased to recognize LGH for its commitment to providing high-quality care for persons with atrial fibrillation,” said Jonathan Piccini, M.D., MHS, FACC, FAHA, FHRS, volunteer expert for the American Heart Association and associate professor of medicine and director of cardiac electrophysiology for Duke University Medical Center. “Hospitals that participate in Get With The Guidelines often see improved patient outcomes, fewer readmissions and lower mortality rates – a win for health care systems, families and communities.” 

For more information, visit heart.org.

###