Give stroke survivors better access to post-hospital rehab, CSP urges

^{A physiotherapist (right) provides rehabilitation to a stroke patient}

Almost one survey respondent in two (45 per cent) said they felt ‘abandoned’ after leaving hospital, according to figures published by the Stroke Association on 17 May. More than 1,100 people took part.

The charity also found that

• four in 10 (39 per cent) left hospital without a care plan and returned home without appropriate support in place for their recovery
• nearly half (47 per cent) said they were not contacted by a healthcare professional after discharge
• four in 10 (39 per cent) did not receive an assessment of their health and social care needs at six months, as recommended by the current national stroke strategy

Karen Middleton, the CSP’s chief executive, said: ‘This survey paints a worrying picture of inadequate care planning and services for stroke survivors.

‘Ensuring stroke survivors have speedy and sufficient access to physiotherapy is an essential part of their recovery, enabling them to regain independence and take an active role in their community, family and workplace.’

She added that it made sense, financially and clinically, to ensure that life-saving treatment was followed-up by life-enhancing rehabilitation.

In light of the survey results, the Stroke Association is calling for the government to update the national stroke strategy for England, which ends in 2017.

To sign the association’s petition for a new stroke strategy, visit www.stroke.org.uk/newera

Author: Robert Millett