The American Heart Association (Association) has introduced a new Stroke Coordinator Certification to address the critical need for skilled professionals in stroke care management. Stroke remains a leading cause of death and disability in the United States, according to the Association's 2026 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics, highlighting the importance of coordinated, evidence-based care across hospitals and health systems.
This certification recognizes advanced expertise in managing stroke programs, ensuring adherence to clinical standards and driving quality improvements for individuals who have experienced a stroke. Certified stroke coordinators play a central role in reducing length of stay, lowering in-hospital mortality, and decreasing 30-day readmissions, as demonstrated by the Association's Get With The Guidelines® registry. The certification equips professionals with the knowledge to lead interdisciplinary teams, implement evidence-based protocols, and leverage data for continuous improvement.
“Caring for patients who have experienced a stroke is a responsibility that impacts lives every day and requires strong clinical knowledge and leadership,” said Dena Brown, MBA, MSN, RN, SCRN, CMSRN, American Heart Association, American Stroke Association volunteer and Enterprise Stroke System Director, Cleveland Clinic. “Stroke coordinators ensure not only timely treatment, but also the highest quality of care across the continuum. This certification gives coordinators the tools and confidence to lead programs that improve outcomes, strengthen systems and expand awareness.”
Benefits for stroke coordinators include professional recognition, career development into leadership roles, and organizational impact through measurable improvements in patient care and system performance. The certification is part of the Certified Professional by the American Heart Association (CPAHA) portfolio, which also includes certifications in telehealth, telehealth stroke, tobacco treatment, and digital health in cardiac care.
“This certification is about more than professional recognition, it’s about empowering leaders in stroke care to make measurable improvements in patient outcomes,” said Lee H. Schwamm, M.D., FAHA, volunteer member of the American Heart Association Center for Telehealth Expert Panel, American Stroke Association. “By validating expertise in program development, clinical knowledge and quality improvement, we’re helping healthcare professionals elevate the standard of care for stroke patients everywhere.”
Candidates must have at least two years of experience as a stroke coordinator, dedicating 50% or more of their time to stroke program responsibilities. Enrollment is open through the Association’s Professional Education Hub. The certification process includes evidence-based online education, a live remote-proctored assessment, and credentialing valid for three years.
