This year, 700,000 people will suffer a stroke. That's why St. Joseph Regional Health Center is fighting the disease head on.

Monday afternoon, St. Joseph was recognized for its exceptional care for stroke patients. It received the Joint Commission's Primary Stroke Center Certification, a distinction that recognizes health care facilities that go the extra mile to ensure better outcomes when diagnosing or treating stroke patients.

Hundreds of hours training and educational sessions for staff went into certification.

The Joint Commission lists St. Joseph as one of 33 health care providers across the state with the distinction.