Hospitals in the Washington University and Barnes-Jewish Hospital Stroke Network have real-time access to some of the nation’s top stroke experts—even when they’re 150 miles away at the time.
Select hospitals have begun to use stroke telemedicine to receive direct care consults for complicated stroke patients. Phone, Internet and video conferencing allows Stroke Network neurologists and radiologists to be “remotely present” at distant hospitals. Together with the partner hospital, physicians can diagnose stroke patients, begin timely treatment with the clot-busting drug tPA, and arrange for transport to Barnes-Jewish Hospital, if needed.
For acute stroke care, telemedicine means faster, more accurate on-site treatment of patients at distant hospitals. For patients, it means receiving local care while still benefitting from the expertise of a certified Comprehensive Stroke Center.
Stroke Telemedicine Helps Barnes-Jewish Team
Stroke telemedicine technology gives Washington University stroke experts a presence in distant rural hospitals—without the travel time. Using wireless Internet, a Washington University physician at Barnes-Jewish Hospital is able to participate in a remote consult which consists of a two-way audio/video feed. This technology allows the expert and patient to see and hear each other. The stroke specialist can then conduct his or her own neurological exam and interact directly with the patient, family and local medical staff. At the same time, the Washington University stroke expert has immediate access to current vital signs, test results and imaging.
The remote consult is an effective tool in getting patients diagnosed and appropriate treatment started as quickly as possible.
Learn about joining the Telestroke Network, here.
If you suspect stroke, call 9-1-1 to activate rapid response services and transport to a Stroke Network hospital.
To find out more about the Barnes-Jewish Hospital Stroke Center, call 855.925.0631.