The following words and phrases when used in this act shall have the meanings given to them in this section unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

“Acute stroke-ready hospital.” A hospital which is designated as an acute stroke-ready hospital by the joint commission or a nongovernmental organization that has been authorized by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to conduct hospital surveys to ensure compliance with the CMS Conditions of Participation.

“Comprehensive stroke center.” A facility which is designated as a comprehensive stroke center by the joint commission or a nongovernmental organization that has been authorized by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to conduct hospital surveys to ensure compliance with the CMS Conditions of Participation.

“Department.” The Department of Health of the Commonwealth.

“Emergency medical services agency medical director.” As defined in 35 Pa.C.S. § 8103 (relating to definitions).

“Joint commission.” An independent national not-for-profit organization that develops and updates organizational standards and performance measures, conducts on-site evaluations and awards accreditation decisions to health care facilities, including hospitals, nursing homes, home care agencies and ambulatory providers, that are accepted by the Federal Government for the compliance of conditions of participation for Medicare.

“Licensed acute care hospital.” Any hospital licensed by the department which is equipped and staffed for the treatment of medical or surgical conditions, or both, in the acute or chronic stages, on an inpatient basis of 24 or more hours.

“Primary stroke center.” A facility which is designated as a primary stroke center by the joint commission or a nongovernmental organization that has been authorized by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to conduct hospital surveys to ensure compliance with the CMS Conditions of Participation.