Pinckneyville Community Hospital (PCH) was recognized by Southern Illinois Healthcare (SIH) with its esteemed Traveling STEMI Trophy, honoring exceptional performance in emergency cardiac care. This award highlights the critical importance of rapid evaluation, treatment, and transport for patients experiencing a ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI)—a severe and life-threatening type of heart attack where every minute can mean the difference between life and death.

The Traveling STEMI Trophy is awarded to hospitals within SIH’s STAT Heart network that demonstrate outstanding efficiency and clinical excellence in responding to cardiac emergencies. To qualify, hospitals must meet or exceed the national benchmark of 120 minutes from Emergency Department (ED) arrival to patient departure for definitive care. In addition, SIH has set an ambitious internal goal of under 90 minutes—a standard achieved by PCH in this award-winning case.

With a remarkable total door-to-reperfusion (restoring blood flow to the heart) time of just 87 minutes, the PCH team not only surpassed national expectations but also met SIH’s aggressive benchmark—an extraordinary accomplishment, particularly given the hospital’s rural location. Situated approximately 33 miles from Carbondale, PCH is the furthest facility within the 11-hospital STAT Heart network to receive this recognition, underscoring the team’s commitment to excellence despite geographic challenges.

“This achievement reflects the dedication, coordination, and clinical expertise of our entire care team,” said Randall Dauby, Chief Executive Officer at PCH, “When a patient presents with a STEMI, time is muscle. Every second counts, and our ability to act quickly and efficiently ensures the best possible outcomes for our patients.”

This success would not have been possible without the seamless collaboration and rapid response of Pinckneyville Ambulance Services (PAS), whose partnership with PCH ensures patients receive timely, life-saving care from the moment emergency services are activated through transport and advanced intervention.

In recognition of excellence, Kaci Prest, Amy Giacomo and Brooke Westenberger, were honored with a Heart Pin for their outstanding care and leadership during the emergency. Their actions exemplify the high standard of compassion and professionalism that defines the PCH team.

Heart disease remains a leading cause of death in the United States, making it essential for individuals to recognize symptoms and seek immediate medical attention. Common signs of a heart attack include chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, nausea, lightheadedness, and pain radiating to the arm, jaw, or back. Prompt treatment significantly improves survival rates and reduces long-term damage to the heart.

PCH’s achievement serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of efficient cardiac care systems, especially in rural communities. Through strong partnerships, advanced protocols, and a relentless focus on patient outcomes, PCH continues to deliver high-quality, life-saving care when it matters most.