The Hospital Authority in Hong Kong is taking significant steps to enhance the treatment and recovery rates of stroke patients by implementing an acute stroke notification system. This innovative system, which has already shown promising results in Queen Elizabeth Hospital and the United Christian Hospital since 2021, is set to be rolled out in all hospitals, starting with a trial in one or two facilities. The primary goal of this system is to streamline communication between departments, improve team collaboration, and expedite the treatment process, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes.
Stroke is a critical health issue in Hong Kong, ranking as the fourth most common cause of death. Public hospitals in the region handle approximately 12,000 cases of acute stroke annually. The ratio of ischemic stroke to hemorrhagic stroke is 8 to 2, and there has been a notable trend of younger patients being affected. The incidence of stroke among individuals aged 18 to 55 has increased by about 30% from 2001 to 2021, highlighting the growing need for effective prevention and treatment strategies.
The Stroke Department of the Kowloon Chinese Medicine Hospital Cluster plays a crucial role in managing stroke cases. With eight stroke nurse clinics serving around 3,000 people annually, these clinics have significantly reduced the use of emergency rooms and lowered the risk of patients being hospitalized again for stroke to less than 5%. This achievement underscores the importance of specialized care and continuous monitoring in stroke management.
One of the key components of the new acute stroke notification system is its ability to reduce communication time between different hospital departments. In the current healthcare landscape, delays in communication can significantly impact the treatment timeline, especially in time-sensitive conditions like stroke. By implementing this system, the Hospital Authority aims to ensure that stroke patients receive the necessary care as quickly as possible, which is crucial for achieving the best possible outcomes.
For ischemic stroke patients, the timing of treatment is particularly critical. If these patients can be transported to the hospital promptly and receive acute thrombolytic therapy within the golden treatment window, the chances of a full recovery are greatly increased. Over the past decade, the proportion of patients receiving thrombolytic therapy has risen from 3 to 4% to 17%, a significant improvement that has led to a higher rate of full recovery.
The success of the acute stroke notification system in Queen Elizabeth Hospital and the United Christian Hospital serves as a testament to its effectiveness. These hospitals have reported a significant reduction in the time it takes for patients to receive treatment, which has directly contributed to better patient outcomes. The trial phase in one or two hospitals will provide valuable insights and help refine the system before it is implemented across all hospitals in Hong Kong.
In addition to the new notification system, the public is encouraged to take proactive steps to prevent stroke. Atrial fibrillation, a common heart condition, is a significant risk factor for stroke. Regularly monitoring blood pressure and being aware of any signs of atrial fibrillation can help individuals take the necessary precautions to reduce their risk. Simple lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and avoiding smoking, can also play a crucial role in stroke prevention.
The implementation of the acute stroke notification system is a significant step forward in the fight against stroke in Hong Kong. By improving communication, enhancing team collaboration, and accelerating treatment, this system has the potential to save lives and improve the quality of life for stroke patients. As the trial phase begins, the Hospital Authority remains committed to ensuring that all hospitals in Hong Kong are equipped with the tools and resources needed to provide the best possible care for stroke patients.
