January 6, 2014
Stroke are common in the United States and quick treatment matters. A group of UVa. doctors is developing a method of treating stroke patients in the ambulance on the way to the hospital, with an iPAD.
Through a secure video link, local EMT's can communicate with neurologists at UVa. hospital and begin the stroke treatment sooner.
In an area like Central Virginia where ambulance rides can be longer than 30 minutes, this technology could help save lives.
The UVa. team is working with Albemarle, Nelson, Greene, and Louisa counties to get the technology called "iTREAT". They hope to have the equipment set up in the next several months.
Andy Southerland, Assistant Professor of Neurology and Public Health Sciences in the Division of Stroke and Vascular Neurology at UVa., said, "Depending on how well it works, the sky is the limit. This is the type of research with rapidly advancing technology and interest in more rapid interaction with stroke patients on the way to the hospital that could be broadened to greater Virginia and even nationally in other rural areas like Central Virginia."
Each "iTREAT" unit is estimated to cost $5,000. The group is fundraising to get two more units installed in local ambulances.
To learn more on how to donate Link click here.
Originally posted here:
UVa Using iPADs to Treat Strokes In Ambulance