Stroke Center

East Alabama Medical Center (EAMC) is the region’s destination for emergency and hospital-based stroke care during critical situations. 

About the Stroke Center at EAMC

• TJC Primary Stroke Center: East Alabama Medical Center is certified as a Primary Stroke Center by The Joint Commission, earning its Gold Seal of Approval® for meeting rigorous standards in timely, evidence-based stroke care.
• Level II Stroke Center: EAMC is designated as a Level II Stroke Center, meaning patients have access to timely stroke evaluation, hospital-based treatment and coordinated care for complex stroke cases.
• Dedicated neuroscience nursing units: For patients with serious conditions affecting the brain, spine or nervous system, EAMC offers specialized inpatient care with frequent neurological monitoring and coordination across the care team.
• Nationally recognized for stroke care excellence: EAMC holds designation from American Heart Association as a “Get with the Guidelines – Stroke Gold Plus” hospital for its commitment to ensuring stroke patients receive the most appropriate treatment according to nationally recognized, research-based guidelines.

How stroke patients are treated at EAMC

Stroke care at EAMC begins with rapid evaluation and continues through diagnosis, treatment and recovery planning based on each patient’s needs.

Upon hospital arrival

Our team of stroke specialists understands that timely evaluation and care are critical during a stroke, and that every second matters. 

When patients arrive at EAMC, they are immediately evaluated by a team of health care professionals who are specially trained in stroke care. 

Diagnostics testing & evaluation

EAMC is equipped with medical expertise, personnel and equipment to effectively diagnose stroke cases for severity and treatment needs. 

• Stroke scale testing: Our stroke specialists use the National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) to determine the severity of a stroke.
• Diagnostic imaging: Imaging and cardiac testing may include CT scans, angiography, chest X-rays, EKGs, MRIs, echocardiograms and carotid doppler studies to help the care team understand the type, cause and severity of a stroke.
• Additional testing and therapy: Patients may also receive blood tests and a swallow evaluation, which help guide treatment decisions and support safe recovery during the hospital stay, as well as evaluation and treatment by our expert physical, occupational and speech therapy services

Stroke treatment options

Stroke treatment at EAMC is based on the type of stroke, how long symptoms have been present and each patient’s overall condition. Treatment may include clot-busting medication, medications to help prevent blood clots, cholesterol-lowering medication, DVT prevention and medical management of stroke risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.

Some patients may need additional procedures or a higher level of intervention depending on the cause and severity of the stroke. If a treatment such as thrombectomy (clot retrieval) is needed, EAMC coordinates and expedites transfer to another facility for that procedure while continuing to support the patient’s care plan.

Hospital stay & rehabilitation

During a hospital stay at EAMC, you will be treated with the highest standards of care for your stroke. An investigation into why you had an ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke will occur including labs, tests and consultations with a specialist. 

In addition, recovery planning begins during the hospital stay. Patients may receive therapy services, stroke education, discharge education, evaluation for inpatient rehabilitation, case management support and follow-up planning before leaving the hospital.

Dedicated neuroscience unit

The Neuroscience Unit (NSU) at EAMC primarily serves patients with neurological conditions, with a strong focus on stroke and seizure populations. The team is experienced in providing specialized monitoring and care for patients requiring frequent neurological assessments and timely intervention. 

This 10-bed unit emphasizes patient safety, early recognition of changes in condition, and coordination with interdisciplinary teams to support optimal outcomes.

Certified stroke rehabilitation services

Within the Rehab Services Department at EAMC, multiple professionals hold stroke-specific certifications including Neurodevelopmental Treatment certifications and Stroke and Rehabilitation Specialist certifications. 

EAMC offers therapy services to help patients regain function after a stroke, including:

• Physical therapy: Our physical therapists work with patients recovering from a stroke on walking and restoring range of motion. 
• Speech therapy: Because stroke can affect swallowing, speech and facial movement, our speech therapists work with patients on swallowing and communication during the recovery process.
• Occupational therapy: Occupational therapists help patients rebuild the skills needed for daily activities, such as dressing, bathing, eating and safely returning to routines at home.

Preparing for recovery

Before leaving the hospital, patients receive education and follow-up guidance to help reduce the risk of another stroke and support recovery at home. 

This may include instructions about medications, stroke warning signs, therapy exercises, lifestyle changes and follow-up appointments with their physician or the Neurology Center of East Alabama.

Follow-up and outpatient stroke care

For many patients, stroke care continues after they leave the hospital through follow-up visits, medication management and support focused on reducing the risk of another stroke.

Dedicated Stroke & TIA Clinic for post-stroke treatment

The Neurology Center of East Alabama offers a specialized Stroke & TIA Clinic for patients who have experienced a stroke. This clinic offers dedicated follow-up care and prevention-focused support for patients who have experienced a stroke or TIA.