Legacy Hilo Rehab and Nursing by Ohana Pacific Health Receives Recognition for Participation in Post-Acute Care Initiative for Stroke Patients
- Ohana Pacific Health
- 6 hours ago
- 3 min read
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 13, 2026
Legacy Hilo Rehab and Nursing by Ohana Pacific Health has been recognized for their participation in the American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline Stroke post-acute care initiative to enhance guideline-based care for stroke patients, ultimately improving and prolonging lives.
Stroke is a leading cause of serious long-term disability in the U.S. and approximately 800,000 people each year experience a new or recurrent stroke, according to the American Heart Association’s 2025 statistical update. Participation in the American Heart Association’s post-acute care initiative can help facilities support faster and more effective recovery from stroke through standardized coordination, adherence and implementation of evidence-based care.
Evidence-based rehabilitation and secondary prevention interventions improve recovery after stroke and reduce secondary complications. However, stroke rehabilitation expertise, processes of care, and educational resources vary among sites where post-acute care is delivered. The American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health for all, developed quality standards based on the Association’s 2016 Guidelines for Adult Stroke Rehabilitation and Recovery to address these gaps.
The post-acute care initiative provides a framework for assisting facilities to improve care according to the American Heart Association’s rigorous science-based requirements for stroke rehabilitation, including program management, patient and caregiver education and support, care coordination, clinical management and quality improvement.
“Participation in this program benefits the patient and the facility by standardizing care practices,” said Chasen Fukuda, Health Care Quality Program Consultant. “When there are evidence-based processes during every phase of care, patients have the best opportunity for positive outcomes. This initiative helps patients and their loved ones know participating facilities follow these important best practices.”
Facilities participating in the post-acute care initiative receive a participation stipend and site-specific quality improvement support and process improvement ideas surrounding quality standards for stroke recovery, rehabilitation and secondary prevention. Facilities also have the opportunity to be part of a learning collaborative, working with experts in stroke rehabilitation to build tools and share and create best practices. Participation improves collaboration between post-acute care facilities and others involved in stroke care, including hospitals and outpatient providers.
“Six years ago, Ohana Pacific Health took over Legacy Hilo and really turned this place around,” says Kerry Pitcher, Administrator of Legacy Hilo. “I am so proud of the team we have here, and their continuous commitment to providing the best rehabilitation and post-acute care for individuals recovering from serious illnesses and injuries, including stroke. Through this initiative with the American Heart Association, we are strengthening our ability to deliver evidence-based care that supports recovery and improves outcomes. We are proud to bring these resources to our teams and help more people regain their independence, maximize their recovery, and improve their quality of life.”
Mission: Lifeline Stroke is the American Heart Association’s community-based initiative to develop systems of care to improve outcomes for stroke patients. The program launched in Hawaii in April 2025 with the support of a $5.8 million grant from the Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust. The goal of Mission: Lifeline stroke is to bring together hospitals, emergency medical services and first responders, rehabilitation facilities, communications and regulatory agencies, state and local government, and payers to forge a proactive system of stroke care that saves and improves lives.
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About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for a century. During 2024 - our Centennial year - we celebrate our rich 100-year history and accomplishments. As we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
About Legacy Hilo Rehab and Nursing
Legacy Hilo Rehab & Nursing is a 100-bed skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility located in the heart of Hilo on Hawaiʻi Island. Owned and operated by Ohana Pacific Health, Legacy Hilo provides short-term rehabilitation, post-acute care, and long-term care for individuals recovering from illness, injury, surgery, or hospitalization. Through a multidisciplinary approach that includes nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and restorative nursing services, Legacy Hilo is dedicated to helping residents achieve their highest level of independence and quality of life. Guided by a commitment to clinical excellence, compassion, and genuine care, Legacy Hilo serves residents and families across Hawaiʻi Island with personalized care and support.
