NSW stroke survivors and their families are being sent home from hospital without access to the services, support and information they need to ensure quality of life post stroke.
The National Stroke Audit Rehabilitation Services Report 2014, released on Thursday by the National Stroke Foundation, found that inadequate carer and patient education was limiting the recovery of NSW stroke survivors.
The report contains results from an audit of 111 Australian hospitals, including 44 in NSW (including Canberra: 39 public, five private).
It measures, for the first time, hospital rehabilitation services performance against the National Rehabilitation Services Framework released in 2013.
National Stroke Foundation NSW executive officer Greg Cantwell said by mapping care against 10 essential service elements recommended in the Framework, the Audit provided a benchmark for hospitals to build upon.
‘The NSW results were mixed with some positive performances against key elements of the Framework and others that clearly require some focused effort for improvement,’ Mr Cantwell said.
‘It was pleasing to see that 79 per cent of patients were being discharged with a plan to address challenges faced on returning home – plans were tailored to the patients individual physical, social or financial needs.
‘However, the lack of systems in place to support carers in transitioning a patient to home and life activities was very concerning. Only 14 hospitals reported providing support and education to patients and carers in support of returning home.
‘This report highlights the ongoing, broad-ranging needs of stroke patients. A stroke patient’s journey does not end on discharge from acute care.
‘It is estimated that this year alone there will be more than 17,000 strokes in this state, and this number is expected to increase to more than 45,000 by 2050. Of those who survive their stroke 65 per cent will be left with a permanent disability requiring ongoing rehabilitation.’
The full report can be downloaded at www.strokefoundation.com.au
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