Advanced Stroke Care at Forrest Health
Forrest General Hospital, the flagship hospital of Forrest Health, is an Advanced Primary Stroke Center, a designation that recognizes its ability to quickly identify and treat stroke patients using evidence-based protocols and specialized resources.
When a patient arrives with signs of a stroke, a dedicated stroke response team is activated immediately. Care is coordinated across multiple departments, including:
- Emergency Department
- Intensive Care Unit (ICU)
- Neurosurgery Unit
- Stroke Care Unit
Board-certified neurologists and neurosurgeons are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to provide expert care when it matters most.
After treatment, patients receive a comprehensive evaluation to identify stroke risk factors, develop a prevention plan, and assess rehabilitation needs to support recovery.
National Recognition for Stroke Care
In 2025, six Forrest Health hospitals received recognition from the American Heart Association for their commitment to delivering high-quality stroke care that follows national treatment guidelines:
- Forrest General Hospital
- Jefferson Davis Community Hospital
- Marion General Hospital
- Pearl River County Hospital
- Walthall General Hospital
- Highland Community Hospital
These recognitions reflect Forrest Health's dedication to improving patient outcomes and reducing the impact of stroke across Mississippi.
24/7 Access to Stroke Specialists Through Telestroke
Patients across Forrest Health have access to stroke specialists around the clock through the telestroke program.
Using secure technology, local healthcare providers can connect with neurologists in real time to evaluate patients and determine the best course of treatment. This rapid access to expert consultation helps speed diagnosis and treatment, improving recovery and outcomes.
Many patients can receive advanced stroke care at their local Forrest Health hospital. Patients who require a higher level of care can be transferred quickly to a comprehensive stroke center.
Forrest General Hospital also participates in the Mississippi Stroke System of Care, helping ensure coordinated, timely stroke treatment throughout the state.
BE FAST - Recognize the Signs of a Stroke
Knowing the warning signs of a stroke can help save a life.
B – Balance
Sudden loss of balance or coordination.
E – Eyes
Sudden vision loss or trouble seeing in one or both eyes.
F – Face
One side of the face droops or an uneven smile.
A – Arm
One arm becomes weak or numb.
S – Speech
Speech becomes slurred or difficult to understand.
T – Time
Call 911 immediately.
Every minute matters when someone is having a stroke.
Know Your Stroke Risk Factors
While some stroke risk factors cannot be changed, many can be managed through healthy lifestyle choices and proper medical care.
Risk Factors You Can Control
High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is one of the leading causes of stroke. Managing your blood pressure can significantly lower your risk.
Tobacco Use
Smoking damages blood vessels and increases stroke risk. The risk is even greater for people who smoke while taking birth control pills.
Diabetes
Diabetes increases the likelihood of stroke, especially when combined with high blood pressure or obesity. Proper diabetes management can help reduce risk.
Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)
AFib is an irregular heartbeat that can allow blood clots to form. If a clot travels to the brain, it can cause a stroke.
Poor Nutrition
A diet high in sodium and calories can contribute to high blood pressure, obesity, and other stroke risk factors. A balanced diet supports heart and brain health.
Physical Inactivity and Excess Weight
Lack of exercise and excess weight increase the risk of conditions linked to stroke, including heart disease, diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity most days of the week.
Risk Factors You Cannot Control
Age
Stroke risk increases with age, particularly after age 55.
Family History
Having a close family member who has experienced a stroke may increase your risk.
Previous Stroke, TIA, or Heart Attack
A transient ischemic attack (TIA), often called a "mini-stroke," can be an early warning sign of a future stroke. People who have experienced a stroke, TIA, or heart attack have a higher risk of another event and should work closely with their healthcare provider to manage risk factors.
Join Forrest General's Stroke Support Group
Our Facebook support group provides you a space of community, resources, and support! Inside of this group our experts post resources, community events, other helpful information for our members.
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