Piedmont Newton recertified as a Primary Stroke Center

Covington, Ga. (September 21, 2026) - Piedmont Newton Hospital has received recertification from DNV as a Primary Stroke Center, reaffirming the hospital's readiness to provide timely, high-quality stroke care.

"This achievement is the result our staff's commitment to delivering the highest standard of stroke care," said Piedmont Newton CEO Lindsey Petrini. "Their expertise, adaptability, and patient-centered approach are key to saving lives."

The DNV Primary Stroke Center Certification is based on standards established by the Brain Attack Coalition and the American Stroke Association. The certification affirms that the hospital addresses the full spectrum of stroke care, including diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and education, while establishing clear metrics to evaluate outcomes.

During the recertification survey, the DNV surveyor praised Piedmont Newton's ability to adapt its processes and develop creative solutions to delivering safe, high-quality care amid increased patient volumes. The hospital also was recognized for implementing a process to identify and treat appropriate patients within the extended treatment window for tenecteplase (TNK), a "clot buster" medication often used for strokes.

Additional areas of recognition included the hospital's awards and quality achievements, its partnership with Willing Helpers Medical Clinic, and the stroke team's extensive community education and outreach efforts.

"This recertification reflects the dedication of team members across Piedmont Newton who work together to provide exceptional stroke care," said Stroke and Cardiovascular Services manager Erica Walker, RN. "Our patients and their families can feel confident that they will receive comprehensive, evidence-based care when every minute counts."

Early detection and treatment are critical to improving survival, reducing disability, and supporting faster recovery. Piedmont Newton encourages community members to "BE FAST" when stroke symptoms are suspected:

• B: Balance - Watch for dizziness or loss of balance.
• E: Eyes - Check for vision loss or double vision.
• F: Face - Look for an uneven smile or facial drooping.
• A: Arm - Check whether one arm is weak or numb.
• S: Speech - Listen for slurred speech.
• T: Time - Call 911 at the first sign of a stroke.