World Stroke Day In Arkansas

World Stroke was observed in Arkansas, Wednesday, October 29th with a press event and simulation/demonstration of a stroke emergency.  Key dignitaries joining the event included Dr. Dan Rahn, Chancellor of the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, who welcomed everyone and discussed how his facility is connecting with hospitals across the state with the telemedicine program specifically for stroke patients. 

Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Joseph Bates, of the Arkansas Department of Health discussed key risk factors for stroke and the high incidence of stroke in Arkansas.  He also highlighted the AR Stroke Registry and the importance of the data that is giving us better insight into the stroke system of care in the state.

Cammie Marti, RN, MPH, provided the following information about the Quality Systems Improvement program progress across the state:  In Arkansas, 41 hospitals tracked the quality of patient care provided to 4,588 stroke patients by participating in the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association’s Get With the Guidelines-Stroke Program. This program allows hospitals to closely monitor and improve on their quality of care based on the latest research and treatment guidelines.

Michael Manley, RN and Director of the AR SAVES (Stroke Assistance thru Virtual Emergency Support), telemedicine program walked the audience through an actual stroke case demonstrating procedures and actions taken when a patient presents at the Emergency Department. 

State Representative Kim Hammer spoke about stroke from a Hospice Chaplin’s perspective.  Hammer is with Saline Memorial in Benton, Arkansas, and is a health advocate as well as a State Representative. Hammer presented a Proclamation signed by Governor Mike Beebe proclaiming Wednesday, October 29th as World Stroke Day across Arkansas.

Also joining the event was Joyce Taylor, Central AR Executive Director, Cindy Hudlow NW Arkansas Executive Director both of the American Heart Association,  Cammie Marti, RN MPH QSI Director for Arkansas, Dr. Curtis Lowery of UAMS and the States Telemedicine Director, and David Vrudny with the Arkansas Department of Health- Stroke Registry.