July 20, 2026 – The American Heart Association has recognized Decatur Memorial Hospital and Springfield Memorial Hospital for providing high-quality stroke care.
Both hospitals received the association’s Get With The Guidelines–Stroke Gold Plus award, which recognizes hospitals that consistently follow evidence-based treatment guidelines and provide timely care for stroke patients.
In addition, Decatur Memorial Hospital earned a place on the Stroke Honor Roll Elite, while Springfield Memorial Hospital was recognized on the Stroke Honor Roll for Advanced Therapy for their ability to quickly restore blood flow to the brain during stroke treatment.
Jennifer Rebbe, director of neurosciences and the Springfield Memorial Hospital Stroke Program, said the awards reflect the hospitals’ commitment to providing the latest treatments and the highest level of stroke care to patients across central Illinois.
Jennifer Swartz, clinical coordinator of the Decatur Memorial Hospital Stroke Program, said rapid treatment is critical because every minute matters during a stroke, adding that the hospital’s specialized stroke team is available around the clock.
The American Heart Association also recognized both hospitals with its Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll for providing specialized care that helps reduce stroke risks among hospitalized patients with diabetes.
Springfield Memorial Hospital is designated by The Joint Commission as a Comprehensive Stroke Center, while Decatur Memorial Hospital is certified as a Primary Stroke Center. Jacksonville Memorial Hospital, Lincoln Memorial Hospital and Taylorville Memorial Hospital are also designated as Acute Stroke-Ready hospitals by the Illinois Department of Public Health.
