SHARON, Pa. - Sharon Regional Medical Center has announced on Friday that it's been recognized nationally for its commitment to high-quality stroke care.

According to a press release, Sharon Regional has been awarded the American Heart Association's "Get With the Guidelines" gold plus quality achievement award for its commitment to ensuring stroke patients receive the most appropriate treatment according to research-based guidelines.

Strokes are the fifth leading cause of death, as well as a leading cause of long-term disability in the U.S. Early stroke detection and treatments are key to improving survival, minimizing disability and accelerating recovery times.

Sharon Regional Chief Medical Office, Dr. Nicholas Abbott says Sharon Regional is committed to providing high-quality stroke care by following the most up-to-date guidelines.

"Get With the Guidelines makes it easier for our teams to put proven knowledge and guidelines to work daily, which studies show can help patients recover better and faster. The end goal is to ensure more people in the Shenango Valley and surrounding areas can live longer, healthier lives," Dr. Abbott said.

Additionally, Sharon Regional received the American Heart Association's "Target: Type 2" Honor Roll award. "Target Type 2" aims to ensure patients with Type 2 Diabetes who may be at higher risk for complications receive the most up-to-date evidence-based care are hospitalized due to a stroke.