SWARMC Stroke Response Team Achieves 27-Minute Door-to-Needle Time Through Coordinated EMS and Hospital Partnership

HOPE, Ark. (March 4, 2026) — A coordinated emergency response between Southwest Arkansas Regional Medical Center (SWARMC), Pafford EMS, and the UAMS Institute for Digital Health and Innovation (IDHI) Stroke Program resulted in an exceptional 27-minute door-to-needle time during a recent acute stroke case.

National guidelines recommend treatment within 60 minutes of hospital arrival. Completing treatment in just 27 minutes reflects seamless execution of advanced stroke protocols and strong collaboration across multiple departments and agencies.

The response began in the field with Pafford EMS crew members Clayton Lester and Oscar Rodriguez, who utilized advanced stroke assessment training and alerted the emergency department prior to arrival.

Upon arrival at SWARMC, emergency physician Dr. Exum and emergency nurses Bailey White, Megan Brown, and Alexa Cintron immediately activated stroke protocols. CT imaging was performed by Nancy Singleton. Registration was facilitated by Brittany Brewster. Laboratory services were supported by Ashley Vagle-Smith and Nick Weeks-Ross, ensuring no delays in care.

This level of coordination is the result of ongoing education and partnership with the UAMS Institute for Digital Health and Innovation Stroke Program, which has worked closely with SWARMC and local EMS providers to strengthen stroke response capabilities in rural communities.

“It is amazing to see how the training was utilized efficiently,” Samantha McBride, Nurse Stroke Facilitator. “EMS did exactly what they were trained to do. That preparation allowed our emergency department to do exactly what they were trained to do. From start to finish, it was a true team effort.”

As stroke experts emphasize, “Time is brain.” Every minute without treatment increases the risk of permanent brain injury. Through preparation, communication, and teamwork, the stroke response team provided the patient with the best possible opportunity for a positive outcome.

Following this response, Bailey White was recognized individually by the UAMS IDHI Stroke Program with Stroke Champion Gold Club status, an honor that reflects clinical excellence within the broader team achievement.

This accomplishment highlights the strength of rural healthcare collaboration and the commitment of local providers to deliver advanced, time-sensitive care close to home.

Southwest Arkansas Regional Medical Center remains dedicated to advancing emergency services through education, partnership, and teamwork.