Stroke care
Final report published 11th March 2009 - click here
A stroke is the third most common cause of death in the UK and also the leading cause of severe disability. What level of care can stroke patients in East Sussex expect? And, could it be better?
These are questions which East Sussex Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee (HOSC) is examined as part of its investigation into local NHS stroke care services.
Most people affected by stroke are over the age of 65, but anyone can have a stroke, including children. A stroke is what happens when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off. Blood carries essential nutrients and oxygen to the brain and, without a blood supply, brain cells can be damaged or destroyed. Because the brain controls everything the body does, damage to the brain will affect body functions, such as limb movement, sight or speech.
Your views
Many people contacted HOSC and gave their views on stroke services and this has helped the Review Board members build up a clear picture of the services. Also, almost 1,200 East Sussex residents responded to a survey to tell HOSC how much they knew about strokes. The results helped HOSC understand how much people know about the symptoms of stroke, what action to take, and what they can do to reduce the risk of having a stroke. The results also helped find out whether more needs to be done to raise awareness, and if so, how best to communicate the information.
Thank you
We are very grateful to everybody who contributed to the evidence gathering. The views of local people, especially of anyone with first-hand experience of stroke care services in East Sussex or health professionals, has been particularly important to HOSC's investigations.
The final report with recommendations for change was submitted to local NHS and social care managers on 11th March 2009.