WVU Stroke Center
Recognized leaders in comprehensive stroke care.
Who We Are
At WVU Medicine’s J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital, we deliver nationally recognized stroke care to patients across West Virginia and the region. As a Joint Commission Certified Comprehensive Stroke Center, our team is available 24/7 to provide lifesaving stroke treatment—from diagnosis to rehabilitation. Our center is backed by the WVU Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, giving patients access to the most advanced stroke therapies, imaging, and telemedicine in the state.
What We Do
Delivering stroke care that matters:
- Our program is certified by The Joint Commission and recognized by the American Heart Association for stroke care excellence.
- In 2024, we treated 100% of eligible stroke patients who arrived in time for clot-busting medication—helping preserve brain function and reduce long-term disability.
- Over 80% of patients who underwent advanced stroke procedures at WVU saw improved blood flow to the brain.
- Our stroke team responds fast—patients receive brain scans and treatment decisions within minutes of arrival.
- We support patients and families beyond discharge with nurse navigator-led follow-up, education, and recovery services that empower long-term independence.
Treatments We Offer
Our comprehensive stroke services include:
- Rapid triage and brain imaging (CT/MRI)
- IV thrombolytics (“clot-busting” meds)
- Endovascular thrombectomy for large vessel occlusions
- Neurocritical care and stroke unit management
- Physical, occupational, and speech therapy
- Stroke prevention and risk evaluation
- Support for families and caregivers through discharge and recovery
How we deliver stroke care across West Virginia
WVU Medicine’s Comprehensive Stroke Center serves as a central hub for advanced stroke care in West Virginia. Our team works seamlessly with hospitals, emergency responders, and families to provide life-saving care whether in person or through coordinated regional systems.
Reaching Rural Communities Through Telestroke: Bringing Expertise to Every Corner of West Virginia
Through our Telestroke and Teleneurology network, WVU Medicine connects local hospitals to expert stroke teams 24/7 using secure video technology to guide fast, life-saving treatment. No matter where a stroke happens, patients can receive the right care at the right time without needing to travel far.
Our current locations: Barnesville, Berkeley, Bluefield, Braxton, Camden, Fairmont, Garrett, Grant, Harrison, Jackson, Jefferson, Morgantown (RNI), Potomac, Princeton, Reynolds, Roane, St. Francis, St. Joe’s, Summersville, Thomas, Uniontown, Weirton, Wetzel, Welch, and Wheeling.
What sets our stroke program apart:
- Statewide access: We connect with hospitals across West Virginia to deliver real-time stroke expertise—ensuring fast care wherever it’s needed.
- Rapid response: Our stroke teams act fast—delivering brain imaging and treatment decisions within minutes.
- Advanced care: We perform minimally invasive stroke procedures, including mechanical thrombectomy for severe strokes.
- Ongoing support: We guide patients beyond discharge with navigation, rehab planning, and support group connections.
WVU Medicine's stroke program is nationally recognized for meeting the highest standards in stroke care.
Know the signs. B.E.F.A.S.T.
Every minute matters. Stroke treatment is most effective when it’s started early.
Recognize the warning signs with BE FAST:
- Balance – Sudden loss of balance or coordination
- Eyes – Sudden vision loss or double vision
- Face – One side of the face drooping or feeling numb
- Arms – Weakness or numbness in one arm; difficulty lifting both arms
- Speech – Slurred speech, trouble speaking or understanding
- Time – Call 911 right away. Don’t wait or drive yourself.
Supporting You
The WVU Stroke Center offers a stroke support group that provides education to stroke survivors and caregivers about topics relating to stroke. To learn more about the WVU Stroke Center Stroke Support Group meetings, please call 304-293-1415.
Recognizing Stroke: Signs & Symptoms | RNI Stroke Program
Learn the warning signs of stroke and why acting quickly can save lives. This video from the RNI Stroke Program explains what to look for and when to seek help.
Stroke Diagnosis & Types | RNI Stroke Program
How are strokes diagnosed, and what types exist? This video breaks down the tools doctors use and the differences between ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes.
Stroke Recovery & Therapy | RNI Stroke Program
Recovery after a stroke takes time and support. This video explores rehabilitation therapies that help patients regain function and quality of life.
Neurointerventional Surgery. Multidisciplinary Expertise.
The expert neurointerventionalists at WVU Medicine have provided minimally invasive treatment for strokes and aneurysms for more than 15 years. They help shape the future of neurointerventional services through leadership roles in national physician societies, serving as editors for medical journals and by participating in the latest research and clinical trials.
Clinical Leadership
See all Neurology Faculty
Office hours: Monday – Friday, 8 am – 5 pm
Referrals and Appointment Requests
If you need to refer a patient or schedule an appointment, please call 855-WVU-CARE or send an email to [email protected].
Consultations
If you are a healthcare provider and would like to consult with one of our stroke experts, please call (304) 598-4809 to speak with our referral specialist. You may also call our Medical Access Referral System (MARS) at (800) 982-6277.