News

Pinckneyville Community Hospital (PCH) has been recognized by Southern Illinois Healthcare (SIH) with its esteemed Traveling STEMI Trophy for outstanding performance in emergency cardiac care. The award recognizes the hospital's ability to provide rapid evaluation, treatment, and transport for patients experiencing a ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI), a severe and life-threatening type of heart attack where timely intervention is critical.

The Traveling STEMI Trophy is presented to hospitals within SIH's STAT Heart network that demonstrate exceptional efficiency and clinical performance in responding to cardiac emergencies. To qualify, hospitals must achieve a door-to-reperfusion time of 120 minutes or less from Emergency Department (ED) arrival to restoration of blood flow to the heart. SIH has also established an internal goal of 90 minutes or less, a standard PCH achieved in this award-winning case.

PCH recorded an impressive door-to-reperfusion time of just 90 minutes, demonstrating the team's ability to respond quickly and coordinate life-saving care. This accomplishment is especially noteworthy 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.

"Providing exceptional cardiac care requires teamwork, preparation, and the ability to make every moment count," said Randall Dauby, Chief Executive Officer at PCH. "Our team understands the urgency of a STEMI emergency and works together to ensure patients receive the care they need as quickly as possible. This recognition is a reflection of the dedication of our staff and the strong partnerships that help us serve our community."

This achievement would not have been possible without the seamless collaboration and rapid response of Pinckneyville Ambulance Services (PAS). Their partnership with PCH helps ensure patients receive timely, life-saving care from the initial emergency call through transport and advanced medical intervention.

In recognition of their exceptional care and leadership during the emergency, Morgan Galbraith and Mason Hopp were honored with a Heart Pin. Their actions reflect the compassion, professionalism, and commitment to quality care demonstrated throughout the PCH team.

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

PCH's recognition highlights the hospital's ongoing commitment to providing high-quality, life-saving care close to home. Through continued staff education, established emergency protocols, and strong partnerships with local emergency services and regional healthcare providers, PCH remains dedicated to delivering timely, effective care when patients need it most.