Stroke Foundation
Stroke Services
Dr Murphy has more that 20 years’ experience working in the health sector in the UK and Australia. She combines clinical expertise with successful executive leadership in the non-profit health sector.  She has expertise in consumer involvement and co-design and co-delivery of projects and research. Dr Murphy has experience in health professional and consumer evidence-based education. She has a deep knowledge of chronic conditions and is experienced in chronic conditions advocacy and policy. As Executive Director Stroke Services at Stroke Foundation, Dr Murphy is responsible for all programs supporting survivors of stroke and their carers and health professionals.

Presenter of 1 Presentation

STROKELINE OUTREACH – A NEED FOR CONTINUITY OF STROKE CARE EXTENDING BEYOND COVID19

Session Type
Free Communication Session
Date
28.10.2021, Thursday
Session Time
15:45 - 17:15
Room
FREE COMMUNICATIONS A
Lecture Time
16:35 - 16:45

Abstract

Background and Aims

In anticipation of care disruption for survivors of stroke from the coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19), Stroke Foundation developed StrokeLine Outreach to ensure continuity of care for Queensland survivors of stroke supported by a Queensland Government grant.

Methods

StrokeLine Outreach was a one-year outbound telephone service targeting vulnerable and at-risk survivors of stroke and carers referred at discharge from acute hospital services. It was delivered by Stroke Foundation health professionals and built on established Stroke Foundation services. The program focus was health and medication management, understanding and managing the impacts of stroke, stroke risk factors, secondary prevention, and mental health risk assessment (using Patient Health Questionnaire-4 - PHQ-4). This was achieved through the provision of information, resources and services including connecting in with general practioners, allied health, community services, hospital services and support groups and mental health services.

Results

10 hospitals participated with 551 referrals. 69% completed the service. 31% of survivors of stroke reported significant issues on discharge and 25% reported difficulties coping or not coping post stroke. Of those screened for mental health issues 72% were at low risk for developing anxiety and depression, 14% at medium risk and 14% scored at high-risk. Eighteen cases required extensive support.

Conclusions

We identified that post hospital discharge continuity of care for survivors of stroke is a pressing area of need with mental health an important consideration. The program demonstrated an existing and ongoing need for the StrokeLine Outreach service given the less than anticipated impact of COVID-19 in Queensland.

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