As certified and defined by a nationally recognized certifying body, PSCs are hospitals that meet standards to support better outcomes for stroke care, including the following: a dedicated stroke-focused program, staffing by qualified medical professionals trained in stroke care, coordination of post-discharge patient self-care, and other eligibility standards. Certified PSC hospitals may pursue voluntary designation from the Illinois Department of Public Health by submitting verification of the PSC national certification and a completed Application for Stroke Center Designation to the Department of Public Health.

Hospitals with Extended Neonatal Capabilities which can provide care to women and newborns at moderate risk and do operate a Special Care Nursery but do not operate a NICU.