WA Health says more Western Australian stroke patients have been provided with life-saving care through specialist stroke consultant advice as part of an expansion of the Statewide Telestroke Service.
The 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.
Minister for Health, Roger Cook said the rapid, specialist advice was delivered using digital technology to allow consultants to review medical scans and imaging of remote patients in real time, which was 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 coordination and access for country patients and invest in prevention and innovation for a more sustainable, equitable and efficient health system,” Mr Cook said.
“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,” he said.
Mr Cook said in the unfortunate event of a stroke, the Service ensured all Western Australians had equitable access to specialist stroke consultants.
State Stroke Director for WA Health, Dr Andrew Wesseldine said access to fast hyper-acute stroke consultation would achieve better health outcomes for all Western Australians.
