Palm Springs, CA — Desert Regional Medical Center is proud to announce it has been awarded Comprehensive Stroke Center Certification by DNV Healthcare USA Inc., the only hospital in the Coachella Valley to achieve this top-level designation.

This three-year certification recognizes the hospital’s ability to provide the most advanced and complex, comprehensive stroke care, serving as a critical resource for patients throughout the valley and surrounding communities.

“Achieving Comprehensive Stroke Center Certification is a tremendous milestone for our organization and our community,” said Kendalyn Zerebny, nurse stroke coordinator. “Stroke is a time-sensitive, life-threatening medical emergency. Having a certified Comprehensive Stroke Center here in the Coachella Valley means our patients have access to the highest level of stroke expertise and treatment options.”

As a Comprehensive Stroke Center, Desert Regional Medical Center is equipped to deliver specialized care for the most severe and complex stroke cases, including around-the-clock availability of neurology, neurosurgery, advanced imaging, and intensive care services.

“I’m very proud of the team of doctors, nurses and staff who worked so hard to achieve and maintain this certification,” said Mike Ditoro, CEO for Desert Regional Medical Center. “We are committed to providing advanced care, close to home for residents and visitors in our desert communities. Working together with our sister hospitals, we provide an important network of stroke treatment -- when every minute can make a difference to a patient’s outcome.”

The certification reflects Desert Regional Medical Center’s adherence to rigorous national and international standards. The DNV Comprehensive Stroke Center Certification Program incorporates requirements from the DNV NIAHO® Hospital Accreditation Program, CMS Conditions of Participation, ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System, the Brain Attack Coalition, and the American Stroke Association®. Together, these standards ensure a comprehensive, coordinated, and continuously improving approach to stroke care.