More than 30 stroke patients across Western Australia have been provided with life-saving care through specialist stroke consultant advice in phase one of a $9.7 million expansion of the Statewide Telestroke Service.
The expanded service enables clinicians in rural, remote and outer metropolitan areas to seek expert advice on quick diagnosis and appropriate treatment pathways for their patients from leading stroke experts at the State's tertiary hospitals.
This rapid, specialist advice is delivered using digital technology to allow consultants to review medical scans and imaging of remote patients in real-time, which is critical in saving lives and reducing the potential for disability.
The expansion of the service was a recommendation of the Sustainable Health Review to improve co-ordination and access for country patients and invest in prevention and innovation for a more sustainable, equitable and efficient health system.
This initial expansion of the Statewide Telestroke Service is part of a phased implementation, with the service working towards a 24/7 model over the next three years.
The Statewide Telestroke Service operates in conjunction with existing WA specialist services, such as the Neurological Intervention and Imaging Service of Western Australia, to deliver cohesive stroke services to the entire State.
As stated by Health Minister Roger Cook:
"This expansion of the Statewide Telestroke Service delivers on a key recommendation of the Sustainable Health Review and closes the gap in rural and remote health care.
"In the unfortunate event of a stroke, this service ensures that all Western Australians have equitable access to specialist stroke consultants.
"Rapid, specialist stroke care is the key to saving lives and reducing the potential for disability and other long-term effects."
As stated by WA State Stroke Director Dr Andrew Wesseldine:
"This service embraces technology to allow clinicians in rural and remote communities access to expert stroke advice in real time.
"This access to fast hyperacute stroke consultation will achieve better health outcomes for all Western Australians."
