A stroke unit is not just a regular hospital ward. It is a specialised area where patients are cared for by an expert team of doctors, nurses and allied health professionals, such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists and speech pathologists. 

Research shows that people who are treated in a stroke unit have better outcomes than those treated in a general hospital ward. This is true regardless of the type of stroke, its cause, or how severe it is. Stroke unit teams understand the complex changes that occur in the brain during a stroke, as well as the physical, cognitive and emotional challenges that can follow. By working together, the team can support patient recovery, reduce complications and help lower the risk of another stroke. 

However, not all hospitals provide specialised stroke care. For this reason, it is important that patients are taken to the hospital best equipped to treat them—even if it is not the closest hospital. 

The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare is currently developing an interactive map of stroke hospitals across Australia. This map will allow people to see how far away specialised stroke care is from their location. However, stroke is a medical emergency. Never attempt to drive someone who may be having a stroke to hospital. Always call an ambulance. Paramedics are trained to identify stroke and will take patients to the most appropriate stroke centre. They can also begin assessments and provide critical care while on the way to hospital. 

Stroke Unit Certification Program

To help ensure Australians receive the highest standard of stroke care, the Australian Stroke Coalition has established the  Stroke Unit Certification Program. This program is recommended by several international and Australian organisations, including the World Health Organization, the World Stroke Organization, the American Heart Association, and the Australian Government’s National Strategic Action Plan for Heart Disease and Stroke. The Stroke Foundation is a proud partner of this important program. 

The Stroke Unit Certification Program assesses hospital stroke services against comprehensive national standards. Hospitals that meet certification standards demonstrate excellence in stroke care, providing a level of confidence and reassurance to patients and their families. A list of certified hospitals can be viewed on the Australian Stroke Coalition website.