New perspective on stroke care

Improving the way in which care is delivered to stroke survivors is behind the creation of two new positions at Hunter New England Health.
Rachel Peake and Alexandra Little are the new stroke care co-ordinators for the Tamworth and Armidale regions. 
Both women have worked in the local health service for some time, but are enthusiastic about taking on the challenging new positions, which will service Tamworth and Armidale Hospitals and the surrounding clusters (Peel, Mehi, McIntyre and Tablelands).
Alex Little had an existing interest in stroke care and services, given her previous work as a speech pathologist and rehabilitation co-ordinator.  The opportunity to be involved in such a groundbreaking new position was too good to pass on.
“The bottom line for me is improving the patient journey,” Alex said.
“That is going to come about by looking at services we already have, strengthening networks and improving the co-ordination of stroke services across the continuum, from admission to the Emergency Department through to rehabilitation and reintegration back into the community.”  
Alex emphasised the new positions did not take from existing services, rather they would be looking to improve on the good work already happening in stroke care across the region.
“We will be acknowledging what is already happening, identifying aspects of stroke services that we provide well, and also looking at areas where we can improve,” she said.
Rachel Peake is also excited about the potential of the new positions to create a positive impact on the way stroke care is delivered.
“I like the idea of starting something at the ground level and I am looking forward to making links between smaller and larger services,” she said.
“All the literature shows that a co-ordinated approach across the continuum of care impacts positively on stroke morbidity.”
Rachel said she would work with community interest groups, stroke survivor groups and consumer groups to ensure people have smooth and appropriate access to services.

Contact: Tamaryn Curry

Phone: 4921 4801