Network meets new NHS England Medical Director

Our Manager, Sarah Rickard, was delighted to join an expert panel alongside Professor Frankie Swords (pictured third from right) at the recent Stroke Association residential meeting.

Held twice a year, the event brings together leaders from stroke networks across the country, senior staff from the charity and invited guests. The two day programme provides a valuable opportunity for regions to collaborate, share learning and support one another in improving stroke services within an ever changing healthcare landscape.

During the panel discussion, Sarah highlighted the unique provider funded model that has enabled our network to remain sustainable during a challenging period in which several other regions have seen their stroke networks reduced or disbanded.

She also shared some of the network’s key achievements and called for the development of national metrics that would encourage a greater “left shift” in stroke care. Such measures would help drive increased investment in community based stroke services.

The panel discussion reinforced the importance of strong regional collaboration, innovation and sustainable investment in ensuring high quality stroke care for patients across the country.