Tasmania strengthens plan to deliver better quality stroke treatment

Stroke Foundation has welcomed the Tasmanian Government’s ongoing budget commitment to stroke prevention, treatment and care.

Funding of $440,000 (over 2 years) for Stroke Foundation to continue its targeted programs in the state was included in last week’s budget. The funding was part of the Government’s $3.9 million investment to continue community healthcare initiatives during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic response and recovery period.

Stroke Foundation Tasmania State Manager Eamonn O’Toole applauded the Government for its quick action to address COVID-19 and its continued commitment to health services as the state recovers.

“Continuity of care has been a major challenge during the pandemic for stoke survivors and its impact will be felt as the country emerges from various restrictions and adapts to living in a COVID-19 world,” Mr O’Toole said.

“The Tasmanian Government’s continued support of Stroke Foundation’s programs will help address these challenges.”

Recently released data shows 665 Tasmanians will experience a stroke for the first time in their lived this year and there are more than 11,000 people living with stroke in the community. Tasmania has the highest incidence of stroke in the country (per-capita).

The 2020-2021 Tasmanian Budget commitment will support:

F.A.S.T. Community Education Program to help Tasmanians recognise a stroke when it occurs by knowing the most common signs of stroke (Face, Arms, Speech,Time).

StOP (Stroke Outreach Program) ensuring stroke survivors and their families are supported to live well after stroke and avoid another stroke.

Community of Practise – StrokeLink Continue a better plan for stroke treatment and care in Tasmania.

Mr O’Toole added stroke can be prevented and treated when patients were able to access high quality stroke treatment and ongoing support in their recovery.

“We look forward to continuing to partner with the Tasmanian Government to strengthen the plan for better stroke treatment and support. This will ensure more stroke patients survive, avoid disability and recover,” he said.

Stroke Foundation’s 2020-2021 pre-budget submission

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