Northern Territory stroke care expands with after-hours service

Stroke Foundation welcomes the news that Northern Territory stroke patients will soon have improved access to after-hours services and specialist doctors. 
 
The Northern Territory Government  announced the Royal Darwin Hospital will be joining the South Australia Telestroke service after-hours, allowing Adelaide-based neurologists to provide consultations to suspected stroke patients through videoconferencing.   Stroke Foundation Chief Executive Officer, Dr Lisa Murphy, says this is a welcome and critical addition to the Northern Territory’s current stroke services. 
 
“This will enhance the already wonderful work the Royal Darwin Hospital stroke team delivers and will allow patients to access additional support, giving them a treatment plan sooner and a better chance of living well after stroke.” 
 
It is estimated that 172 first-time strokes will be experienced by Northern Territory residents this year.  
  
“Access to Telestroke both increases the rate of thrombolysis or clot busting medication, administered in regional hospitals and increases the speed at which this time-critical treatment is given. This translates to less death and disability following stroke,” Dr Murphy said. 

“It is critical that Australians, regardless of their postcode, have access to equitable and immediate stroke treatment and that is exactly what Telestroke after-hours will deliver.” 

Stroke Foundation has proudly been working with the Northern Territory Government to deliver improved stroke care for NT patients and, over the past year, has been advocating for the Government to invest in the Foundation’s evidence-based community education program to reduce the number of preventable strokes and ensure more Territorians know the life-saving stroke F.A.S.T. signs and actions.  

“Access to Telestroke services is crucial but can be enhanced by Territorians knowing the signs of stroke. The sooner people get to hospital, the sooner they will receive specialist treatment and the better the chances of living well after stroke. This all starts with awareness and knowing the F.A.S.T. message which is why education programs are so important.” Dr Murphy said.