Response to NHS Progress Reports

Joe Korner, Director of Communications at The Stroke Association commented:

"We welcome the key areas of progress in NHS services outlined in today's reports. However, the playing field must now be levelled to bring stroke care in line with heart care. Stroke must be treated as a medical emergency - time lost is brain lost. The time between the onset of stroke and diagnosis should be no more than three hours for all stroke patients wherever they are in the country.

"Stroke is the UK's third biggest killer and the leading cause of severe adult disability. Yet many stroke survivors still experience long delays regarding access to scans and appropriate treatment in hospitals that do not have a dedicated stroke unit. We look forward to further improvements in emergency care with the Government's forthcoming stroke strategy and strongly urge that these vital reforms are taken forward."

ENDS

For further enquiries please contact the Media Team at The Stroke Association on 020 7566 1500 or email the Press Office

NHS Progress reports

Notes to editor

1. The Stroke Association is the only national charity solely concerned with combating stroke in people of all ages. The charity funds research into prevention, treatment, better methods of rehabilitation and helps stroke patients and their families directly through its community services which include a communication support service, family and carer support service, information services, welfare grants, publications and leaflets. The Stroke Association also campaigns, educates and informs to increase knowledge of stroke at all levels of society acting as a voice for everyone affected by stroke.

2. A stroke is a brain equivalent of a heart attack. A stroke can be diagnosed by using FAST - Facial weakness, Arm weakness, Speech Problems, Test all three. If these symptoms are present call an ambulance straight away.

3. The Stroke Helpline provides information on stroke to the general public and is open between 9am - 5pm Monday to Friday on 0845 3033 100.

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