DoH launches ‘electronic toolkit’ for stroke prevention

The Department of Health has this week announced the launch of computer-based scheme to assist in the modernisation of stroke services and prevent strokes occurring in the UK.

Asset-2, a web-based system aimed at Primary Care Trusts and GPs, identifies the level of demand for stroke services in specific areas and compared the available services with other organisations, aiming to recognise instances of best practice and forecast the effects of any changes.

The programme aims to increase the capacity of stroke units, provide more speedy access to minor stroke services, achieve faster scanning to make more use of drugs combating clots and support the early discharge of patients.

Professor Roger Boyle, national clinical director for stroke services, said: “If health care commissioners use this tool and follow its recommendations, then lives will be saved.”

He added that Asset 2 would complement work currently being undertaken with the national stroke strategy and that every stroke patient should receive excellent post-stroke care on stroke units.

Earlier this week, Professor Boyle argued that he expected developments in the speed and efficacy of heart attack treatments to result in 250 fewer complications, such as stroke, each year.