A national initiative to prevent one million heart attacks and strokes in five years – is now congratulating hospitals and health systems that excel in preventing cardiovascular events through the new Million Hearts Hospitals & Health Systems Recognition Program.

The Million Hearts Hospital & Health System Recognition Program acknowledges institutions working to systematically improve the cardiovascular health of the population and communities they serve through the priority areas of: 1) Keeping People Healthy, 2) Optimizing Care, 3) Improving Outcomes for Priority Populations, and 4) Innovating for Health.

The program also creates new opportunities to promote innovative approaches to tackle the leading causes of heart disease and stroke. The Million Hearts Hospital & Health System Recognition Program is an on-ramp for hospitals to get involved in Million Hearts and to be appreciated for the work they are doing. It also enables participants to identify new areas and ways in which they can prevent cardiovascular events. Some 1.6 million people in the U.S.

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have a heart attack or stroke each year.

“High-performing hospitals and health systems can have lifesaving impact preventing heart attacks and stroke. Through the Million Hearts Initiative, we aim to highlight these hospitals’ and health systems’ commitment to prevention as we work together to inspire even greater innovation and achievement,” said Laurence Sperling, M.D., executive director of Million Hearts.

The Million Hearts Hospitals & Health System Recognition program is now open. Applications received by March 31, 2020, will be among the first to be considered and to be awarded this designation. Eligible applicants range from health systems with multiple hospitals, hospitals with and without ambulatory medical practices, and medical practices not affiliated with hospitals. Applicants can apply online

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on a quarterly basis.

In addition to reviewing the information submitted in support of selected strategies, applicants must attest to being free from sanctions and current investigations for serious institutional misconduct or a record of serious infractions within the last three years. All eligible hospitals and health systems are encouraged to apply. Multiple designees may be selected.

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About Million Hearts

Million Hearts 2022 is a national initiative co-led by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to prevent one million heart attacks and strokes within 5 years. It focuses on a small set of priorities selected for their ability to reduce heart disease, stroke, and related conditions. CDC’s Division for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention provides leadership and support for the Million Hearts initiative, which began in 2012. The agency collaborates extensively with CMS, sets priorities, and leads the communications, partnership development, research, translation, and evaluation efforts for the initiative.

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U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES