Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta (LLUMC – Murrieta) has received full accreditation as a Chest Pain Center by the Society of Cardiovascular Patient Care, an international nonprofit focused on improving cardiovascular care.
“This is a huge accomplishment and creates a benefit to the community that will save lives and improve the quality of life in our region,” says Greg Henderson, newly appointed administrator of operations for LLUMC – Murrieta.
“We have a dedicated team of professionals who have committed themselves to our mission to save lives. This accreditation is another important step as Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta strives to provide world-class life-saving heart care for this area.”
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, killing approximately 600,000 people annually. More than five million Americans visit hospitals each year with chest pain.
An Accredited Chest Pain Center’s evidence-based approach to cardiac patient care allows clinicians to rapidly begin treatment during the critical early stages of a heart attack.
“In a short time, Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta has rapidly become the leading provider of life-saving heart care services,” states Dr. David Lu, cardiologist and chair of the LLUMC – Murrieta chest pain committee.
“We see this accreditation as a vital part of our growth and long-term commitment to bringing advanced cardiac treatment and education to this community,” he continues.
“Not long ago, people had to endure long transportation out of the area to get this type of care and now, we have a comprehensive program that is close to home. In this program, our patients will experience our commitment to excellence.”
By achieving accreditation as a Chest Pain Center, LLUMC – Murrieta has demonstrated expertise in the following areas:
- Integrating the emergency department with the local emergency medical system
- Assessing, diagnosing and treating patients quickly
- Effectively treating patients with low risk for acute coronary syndrome and no assignable cause for their symptoms
- Continually seeking to improve processes and procedures
- Ensuring the competence and training of Accredited Chest Pain Center personnel
- Maintaining organizational structure and commitment
- Having a functional design that promotes optimal patient care, and
- Supporting community outreach programs that educate the public to promptly seek medical care if they display symptoms of a possible heart attack.