Statement By Minister For Health And Children, Mary Harney TD Following Publication Of Irish Heart Foundation National Audit Of Stroke Care, Ireland

Main Category: Stroke / Neuroprotection
Also Included In: Cardiovascular / Cardiology
Article Date: 10 Apr 2008 - 4:00 PDT

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Mary Harney TD, Minister for Health and Children yesterday welcomed the publication of the Irish Heart Foundation National Audit of Stroke Care, conducted with the support of the Department of Health & Children.

Minister Harney notes the comprehensive nature of the report covering the spectrum of care from prevention to treatment and rehabilitation. The Minister said 'last year I established the Cardiovascular Strategy Policy Review Group to advise on how to prevent the occurrence of cardiovascular disease and stroke and improve services for individuals affected by these conditions. This audit has highlighted a number of areas where clinical care and the organisation of stroke services can be enhanced. I am aware that the Policy Review Group has, in the course of its work, considered the Audit and will be making recommendations to me in the summer. My key concern is that individuals at risk of stroke, or those who suffer from the consequences of a stroke, are provided with high quality preventative and treatment services.'

The Minister said that her Department has met with the HSE on the issues raised in the Audit and that the HSE is already working to enhance the provision of acute hospital services to stroke patients. The issue of preventative cardiovascular services, highlighted in the audit, will be addressed during the review of the present GMS contract.

Department of Health and Children