Johns Hopkins Howard County Medical Center’s Stroke Program is designated by the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS) as a primary stroke center for the State of Maryland. Our team has developed a comprehensive system for rapid diagnosis and treatment of people with stroke in the Emergency Department. This includes always being equipped to provide brain imaging scans, having neurologists available to conduct patient evaluations and using clot-busting medications when appropriate. The hospital is committed to a higher standard of stroke care by ensuring that stroke patients receive treatment for at least 24 months according to nationally accepted standards and recommendations. Johns Hopkins Howard County also provides rehabilitation therapy.

American Heart and American Stroke Association Awards

Get With The Guidelines quality improvement program promotes consistent adherence to the latest research-driven guidelines and measurement, while providing data and information to professionals for continual improvement in patient care. Johns Hopkins Howard County Stroke Program's 2026 awards include:

• Stroke Silver Plus – Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll Elite
• Coronary Artery Disease NSTEMI Gold – Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll
• Coronary Artery Disease STEMI Receiving Bronze

BE FAST

If you think you or someone you know may be experiencing a stroke, call 9-1-1 immediately. Our emergency hospital response teams will be notified and activated to provide faster treatment. Every minute counts, so be BE FAST when you see any of these signs:

Balance Lost - Loss of balance or coordination?
Eyes Blurred- Blurred, double or persistent vision trouble?

Face - Droopy face on one side? Ask the person to smile.
Arms - Weak or numb arm? Ask them to raise their arms. Does one drift down?
Speech - Slurred speech? Ask them to repeat a simple sentence to see if they can.
Time - If the person shows any of these symptoms, call 9-1-1 immediately. Time lost is brain lost.