(MENAFN - The Peninsula) The average length of stay (LOS) for stroke patients at Hamad General Hospital (HGH) has been declining this year. In January, the average LOS was 12 days, that has fallen to eight.
The shorter LOS demonstrates the effective care being given to patients who benefit greatly from being discharged as early as possible, when clinically appropriate, to continue their recovery at home with ongoing support from care teams, according to Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC).
The percentage of patients receiving thrombolysis treatment (which must be administered within 4.5 hours of the onset of symptoms) has doubled since 2013. Thrombolysis can greatly increase a stroke patient's chances for a full recovery, but it must be given within the 4.5 hour timeframe.
HMC's stroke team organised a symposium to mark World Stroke Day on October 29. More than 300 delegates attended, including Dr Hanan Al Kuwari, Managing Director, HMC, and top leaders involved in the delivery of care for stroke patients.
HMC has been working to improve the care for stroke patients. The opening of a Stroke Ward at HGH in March 2014 has played a key role in improvements.
A multi-disciplinary team of stroke neurologists, rehabilitation physicians, stroke nurses, allied health professionals, stroke coordinators and clinical nurse specialists has also set up to provide specialist care.
Speakers at the forum explained that stroke is one of the leading causes of mortality and the No. 1 cause of chronic disability in the world. Due to the high prevalence of many risk factors for stroke, including diabetes, obesity, high cholesterol, hypertension and inactivity, the incidence of stroke is high in Qatar's population.
"Fast and specialised medical intervention is key to successful treatment for stroke patients," said Dr Naveed Akhtar, Director, Stroke Ward. "The sooner treatment is given, the better the chance that the patient's brain cells can be protected. We have developed the Stroke Ward to ensure patients are treated as quickly and effectively as possible. The processes we have implemented to date have led to significant improvements in the care of stroke patients," he added.
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Qatar- Stroke patients' average stay at HGH declines to eight days