Ascension Saint Thomas Highlands earns National Chest Pain Certification

(Feb. 12, 2025) - Ascension Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital has been nationally recognized for its high-quality heart care, earning the Chest Pain Certification from The Joint Commission, an independent organization that evaluates hospitals across the country to ensure they meet the highest standards of patient care and safety.

This certification acknowledges the hospital’s commitment to providing fast, expert treatment for chest pain, a potential indicator of a heart attack. With a dedicated team of specialists and advanced technology, the Chest Pain Program at Ascension Saint Thomas Highlands delivers high-quality heart care close to home, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances for emergency treatment.

“Achieving Chest Pain Certification reflects our team’s commitment to ensuring the best possible outcomes for our patients,” said Brad Lowery, CEO of Ascension Saint Thomas Highlands. “This recognition confirms that patients experiencing chest pain can expect care that meets rigorous national standards.”

To receive this certification, the hospital completed a comprehensive evaluation by The Joint Commission, which assessed its ability to quickly diagnose and treat chest pain, develop effective treatment plans, and support patients throughout recovery.

“Chest Pain Certification recognizes health care organizations committed to striving for excellence and fostering continuous improvement in patient safety and quality of care,” said Ken Grubbs, DNP, MBA, RN, executive vice president of Accreditation and Certification Operations and chief nursing officer at The Joint Commission. “We commend Ascension Saint Thomas Highlands for using The Joint Commission certification process to reduce variation in clinical processes and strengthen its clinical program, driving safer, higher-quality, and more compassionate care.”

Serving Sparta and the surrounding region since 1929, Ascension Saint Thomas Highlands is a 60-bed hospital offering 24/7 emergency care, behavioral health services, rehabilitation, and more. The Chest Pain Certification adds to a list of recent recognitions, including the Zero Harm Award from the Tennessee Hospital Association for excellence in patient safety and a five-star patient recommendation rating from Becker’s Hospital Review.