Which program designates stroke centers in New Mexico and works with EMS providers to establish prehospital stroke care standards?

• A. NMEMSTARS
• B. Stroke Program
• C. Santa Fe Control
• D. STEMI Program

Answer: (B)

The Stroke Program is the state-level initiative that designates stroke centers and partners with EMS to establish prehospital stroke care standards. It sets the criteria hospitals must meet to be recognized as stroke centers and works with EMS agencies to create protocols for field assessment, destination decisions, and pre-notification to receiving facilities. This collaboration helps ensure patients are transported to appropriate centers quickly, improving access to rapid imaging and treatment.

In contrast, NMEMSTARS mainly handles EMS data tracking, the STEMI Program focuses on heart attack center designation and related protocols, and Santa Fe Control isn’t the program associated with stroke center designation.