Stroke Service

The Stroke Service is the umbrella organisation representing all health professionals employed by Hunter New England Health working with stroke survivors and their carers/significant others across the phases of care from acute to community based care. 

The Stroke Service has a planning and co-ordination role aiming for excellence in service provision in meeting the needs of health consumers affected by stroke in the adult age group.

The Stroke Service addresses three priority areas:

1. Key Clinical Team - whose role is to develop and maintain knowledge, skills and attitudes consistent with recognised up-to-date trends, in delivery of Stroke Care, as well as provide education and research in these areas.
2. Education and Research Programs (supported by relevant information technology infrastructure) aimed at providing leadership in stroke research and professional education.
3. Development of effective networks with key stakeholders in stroke including consumers and providers outside the Public Health System.

Why have a Stroke Service?

Stroke is the leading cause of chronic disability in Australia (National Stroke Foundation) and the second leading cause of death in adults in Australia (National Heart Foundation, 2001).

Evidence confirms that stroke units improve the outcomes of stroke patients in terms of death and independence (Langhorne P & Dennis M, Stroke Units, and Evidence Based Approach, BMJ 1998).

Professional Links

Australian Department of Health and Aged Care
www.health.gov.au  

Australian Institute of Health and Welfare
www.aihw.gov.au

Brain Injury Rehabilitation Trust
www.birt.co.uk

Brain Injury Information Network
www.tbinet.org

Carers NSW Inc.
www.carernsw.asn.au