CHC/SEK Receives National Recognition for Excellence in Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention

The Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas has gained recognition from the American Heart Association for the center's efforts to address patients' high blood pressure and Type 2 diabetes issues. (Wix file photo)

Press release

PITTSBURG – The Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas (CHC/SEK) has received three American Heart Association achievement awards for its commitment to reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke by improving high cholesterol, Type 2 diabetes, and blood pressure management. The awards recognize a commitment to following the latest evidence-based care guidelines.

CHC/SEK received three achievement awards: 

• The American Heart Association’s Check. Change. Control. Cholesterol™ Gold Recognition

• The American Heart Association’s Target: Type 2 Diabetes℠ Participation Recognition

• Target: BP™ Gold+ Recognition jointly presented by the American Heart Association and the American Medical Association.

“We are proud to be recognized by the American Heart Association for our focus on Type 2 diabetes, cholesterol, and high blood pressure management and care,” said Brenda Stokes, CHC/SEK Vice President of Nursing and Quality Improvement. “We care for more than 15,000 patients with hypertension and almost 7,000 with diabetes. These recognitions underscore the incredible work of our staff and their commitment to providing quality healthcare to everyone.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly half of U.S. adults have high blood pressure, over 14% have diabetes, and more than 11% have high cholesterol. Research shows that these conditions occur at higher rates in rural communities and are significantly more likely to go uncontrolled.

“Unmanaged, these conditions can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease and stroke,” said Stokes. “At CHC/SEK, we focus on early detection, prevention, and helping patients take charge of their health. Often, small changes like taking the right medications or making simple lifestyle adjustments can make a big impact.”

Patients can receive comprehensive care for high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol at any CHC/SEK clinic. To find the nearest clinic, visit chcsek.org/our-communities.