Piedmont McDuffie Hospital earns remote treatment stroke center re-designation

Thomson, Ga. (August 24, 2026) – Piedmont McDuffie Hospital has been redesignated as a Remote Treatment Stroke Center by the Georgia Department of Public Health. The designation is valid through August 6, 2029, and recognizes the hospital's continued commitment to providing rapid, evidence-based stroke care for patients in McDuffie County and surrounding communities.

Stroke is a leading cause of long-term disability and death in the United States, making timely diagnosis and treatment critical.

As one of 12 Georgia-designated Remote Treatment Stroke Centers, Piedmont McDuffie is equipped to rapidly evaluate patients with acute stroke symptoms and begin treatment as quickly as possible. Through advanced telemedicine technology, emergency providers can connect in real time with stroke specialists, allowing patients to receive expert care close to home while ensuring seamless access to additional resources when needed.

The designation reflects Piedmont McDuffie's commitment to maintaining the policies, protocols, staff training, performance improvement measures and clinical resources necessary to provide high-quality stroke care. The Georgia Department of Public Health commended the hospital for its commitment to excellence in acute stroke care and for its role in Georgia's statewide stroke system

Piedmont McDuffie is part of a comprehensive stroke network that includes Piedmont Augusta, which is certified as a Comprehensive Stroke Center, the highest level of stroke certification. Comprehensive Stroke Centers provide advanced diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation and education for the most complex stroke cases and serve as a critical resource for patients across the region.

"When it comes to stroke care, every minute matters," said Nic Wood, executive director and hospital administrator of Piedmont McDuffie Hospital. "This designation demonstrates our team's dedication to ensuring patients have access to rapid evaluation and treatment when stroke symptoms occur."

To help identify signs of a stroke, use the acronym B.E.F.A.S.T.: 

• Balance – Is there trouble with balance or coordination? 
• Eyes – Has the person experienced blurred, double, or loss of vision? 
• Face – Look for an uneven smile. 
• Arm – Check if one arm or leg is weak or just “doesn’t feel right.” 
• Speech – Listen for slurred speech or trouble finding words. 
• Time– Call 911 right away if you have any of the above symptoms  

Schedule an appointment with your primary care physician to learn how to prevent a stroke or visit piedmont.org/stroke for more information.