North Okaloosa Medical Center Recognized for Most Improved Stroke Care by Florida Stroke Registry and Florida Department of Health

9/30/2026

Crestview, FL - (9/30/26) - North Okaloosa Medical Center (NOMC) has been recognized as a Most Improved Hospital for 2023-2025 by the Florida Stroke Registry and the Florida Department of Health for its improvement in Door-to-Needle times within 45 minutes for eligible stroke patients.

The recognition highlights NOMC’s continued commitment to providing timely, high-quality stroke care to patients throughout the panhandle.

For patients experiencing a stroke, every minute matters. Door-to-Needle time measures the time from a patient’s arrival at the hospital to the administration of intravenous thrombolytic medication, when appropriate. Reducing this time can help eligible patients receive potentially life-changing treatment more quickly.

“This recognition reflects the dedication, teamwork and urgency our team brings to every stroke patient who comes through our doors,” said Mike Nordness, CEO. “Our physicians, nurses, emergency department staff, radiology team and other clinical professionals work together to recognize stroke symptoms quickly, evaluate patients efficiently and deliver treatment as soon as possible. We are proud of the progress we have made and remain committed to continually improving stroke care for our community.”

The recognition from the Florida Stroke Registry and Florida Department of Health represents progress in NOMC’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its stroke program and improve outcomes for patients. The hospital’s stroke team continues to focus on evidence-based practices, rapid evaluation and close collaboration among departments to ensure patients receive the care they need as quickly as possible.

NOMC encourages community members to BE FAST when recognizing the warning signs of stroke:

• B – Balance: Sudden loss of balance or coordination
• E – Eyes: Sudden vision changes
• F – Face: Facial drooping
• A – Arms: Arm weakness or numbness
• S – Speech: Speech difficulty or confusion
• T – Time: Call 911 immediately

Recognizing stroke symptoms and seeking emergency medical care immediately can make a critical difference.

North Okaloosa Medical Center is proud to be recognized for its improvement in stroke care and will continue working to provide high quality care to patients and families across the community.

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