Secondary stroke prevention services in Canada: a cross-sectional survey and geospatial analysis of resources, capacity and geographic access.

Secondary stroke prevention services in Canada: a cross-sectional survey and geospatial analysis of resources, capacity and geographic access. CMAJ Open. 2018 Feb 21;6(1):E95-E102 Authors: Jewett L, Harroud A, Hill MD, Côté R, Wein T, Smith EE, Gubitz G, Demchuk AM, Sahlas DJ, Gladstone DJ, Lindsay MP Abstract BACKGROUND: Rapid assessment and management of transient ischemic attacks and nondisabling strokes by specialized stroke prevention services reduces the risk of recurrent stroke and improves outcomes. In Canada, with its vast geography and with 16.8% of the population living in rural areas, access to these services is challenging, and considerable variation in access to care exists. The purpose of this multiphase study was to identify sites across Canada providing stroke prevention services, evaluate resource capacity and determine geographic access for Canadians. METHODS: We developed a Stroke Prevention Services Resource Inventory that contained 22 questions on the organization and delivery of stroke prevention services and quality monitoring. The inventory ran from November 2015 to January 2016 and was administered online. We conducted a geospatial analysis to estimate access by drive times. Considerations were made for hours of operation and access within and across provincial borders. RESULTS: A total of 123 stroke prevention sites were identified, of which 119 (96.7%) completed the inventory. Most (95) a...
Source: cmaj - Category: General Medicine Authors: Tags: CMAJ Open Source Type: research