Stroke Foundation congratulates the Honourable Blair Boyer MP, on being appointed to the South Australia's Minister for Health and Wellbeing portfolio.
Stroke Foundation's Chief Executive Officer, Dr Lisa Murphy, says she looks forward to working with Minister Boyer to tackle the impact of stroke on South Australians of all ages.
"I am excited to work closely with Minister Boyer and welcome his support for Stroke Foundation's mission to prevent stroke, save lives and enhance recovery."
Every 11 minutes someone in Australia experiences a stroke. In 2023, nearly 3,700 South Australians had a stroke, and stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in South Australia, claiming the lives of nearly 700 residents in 2024.
80 per cent of strokes are preventable, yet one in three South Australians still cannot recognise any of the common signs of stroke or know the common risk factors. Unless the signs of stroke are recognised and acted on, the lifesaving 000 phone call may never be made or made too late to prevent death or significant life-long disability.
In addition to this, only 42 per cent of South Australian stroke patients arrive at hospital within the recommended 4.5-hour window to receive clot-dissolving treatment, despite South Australia having some of Australia's leading stroke care clinicians and best-practice acute care protocols.
Also concerning, only one in four South Australian survivors of stroke leave hospital with hospital discharge information which includes vital information on how to prevent secondary strokes and avoid hospital readmissions.
Dr Murphy is calling on Minister Boyer to support the work of Stroke Foundation.
"Strategic investment in prevention, awareness, improved stroke care and rehabilitation has the power to save lives, reduce long-term disability, and significantly ease pressure on hospitals and rehabilitation services, and keep more people in employment and living independently," Dr Murphy said.
Funding Stroke Foundation's work is an investment in saving lives, preventing disability, and reducing long-term healthcare, NDIS and Aged Care costs. We urge you to ensure stroke prevention and care becomes a greater priority in this year's budget.
