Not all hospitals are the same when it comes to treating strokes.

Facilities may have designations such as comprehensive stroke center, primary stroke center and basic stroke center.

Hospitals can apply to The Joint Commission, an agency that accredits health-care facilities, for certification as a primary stroke center. To qualify, facilities must meet 10 specific criteria, including having a core stroke team in place and written care protocols.

Comprehensive stroke centers, according to the Brain Attack Coalition, provide an even higher level of care.

In the Richmond area, comprehensive and/or primary stroke centers include: