Abstract TP379: “Build It and They Will Come”: How Comprehensive Stroke Certification Increases the Number of Transfers

• Published in: Stroke (1970) 2017-02, Vol.48 (suppl_1)
• Main Author: Robertson, Betty
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 0039-2499; 1524-4628
• DOI: 10.1161/str.48.suppl_1.tp379

Abstract only Introduction/Background: Stroke is the leading cause of long-term disability affecting 800,000 people in the U.S. each year. In September 2012 The Joint Commission, in collaboration with the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association’s Brain Attack Coalition, launched the Advanced Certification for Comprehensive Stroke Centers (CSCs). This new level of certification recognizes the significant resources in staff and training that comprehensive stroke centers must have to treat complex stroke. Certification is available only to comprehensive stroke centers in Joint Commission-accredited acute care hospitals. For CSC eligibility, there are numerous requirements and volumes that must be met. The most complicated stroke cases should be treated at the centers best equipped to provide specialized care that lead to better outcomes. Cedar-Sinai became the 4 th program in the nation to receive this prestigious certification. By providing expert care, numerous clinical trials, and high level treatment and procedures, we have become the center of choice for patients in need of a higher level of care. Research Question: Does comprehensive stroke certification lead to an increased number of transfers for higher level of care? Methods: Retrospective analysis of the number of acute strokes transferred to Cedars-Sinai between the first years of Comprehensive Stroke Certification in 2012 through 2015. Results: 2012 yielded a total transfer of 97 patients. In 2015 the volume had risen to 194, a 50% increase in 4 years. It is important to note that in 2014, 4 patients were transferred post TPA infusion (Drip and Ship), the gold standard for treatment of ischemic stroke. 2015 resulted in 25 such transfers, a six fold increase. Conclusion: The full spectrum and coordination of services that a CSC is equipped to provide contributes to increased access of specialized care for complex stroke patients. This in turn leads to better outcomes. This not only translates to delivery of timely optimal treatment for stroke patients, but also increases our expertise in delivery of this care.