International recognition for ERH stroke care

Echuca Regional Health has been recognized for excellence in stroke care nationally and internationally.

The health service received the Angels Gold Status award from the World Stroke Organization in October for meeting the highest standards in stroke treatment and care.

The Angels Initiative aims to optimize the level of treatment in stroke centers around the world and improve patient outcomes by setting global benchmarks for best care practices.

ERH treats approximately 100 strokes each year, with 202 people from the wider catchment area experiencing stroke for the first time and over 3,415 people living with the effects of stroke in the region.

“This award recognizes major developments in stroke care at Echuca Regional Health,” said ERH Executive Director of Medical Services, Dr. Glenn Howlett.

“The collaboration between members of the stroke medical, nursing and paramedical teams provides best stroke care practices to our community. “

The training, protocols and performance of the hospital’s stroke unit were evaluated as part of the Angels Initiative, which includes a goal of restoring blood flow to the brain in more than half of patients. eligible within 60 minutes of arrival at hospital.

ERH Stroke Coordinator Lauren Arthurson said earning WSO Gold status was a great honor and a testament to a team effort to improve stroke care in the region.

“Stroke is an urgent medical emergency where the blood supply to the brain is interrupted or reduced,” she said.

“With every passing minute, more brain cells can be lost and the risk of disability and death increases.

“Acting quickly on signs of stroke and implementing best care practices requires coordination between ambulance, emergency department, radiology and stroke unit staff. “

ERH was also one of 13 hospitals named recipients of the 2021 Australian Stroke Coalition Quality Stroke Service Awards of Excellence, having achieved nine benchmarks in stroke treatment and care.

“Ensuring that the appropriate patients receive anticoagulant therapy within 60 minutes of arriving at the hospital door is the gold standard and means more people will survive and live well after a stroke,” Ms. Arthurson said. .

“Unfortunately, people living in the Australian region have higher stroke rates and face the challenge of providing access to treatment over great distances.

“To solve this problem, Echuca Regional Health is using telehealth technology to ensure that our patients have access to stroke specialists for critical assessment and the development of patient-specific care plans. “

Stroke Foundation Executive Director Sharon McGowan said it was encouraging to see many regional hospitals win the award of excellence this year.

About Antoine L. Cassell

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