Northern Ireland stroke professionals praised for their ‘tireless’ work for patients

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Northern Ireland stroke professionals praised for their ‘tireless’ work for patients

More than 150 stroke professionals from across Northern Ireland came together to share insights on improving treatments for stroke patients. Health Minister Mike Nesbitt praised them for their commitment for working tirelessly to improve outcomes for patients.

The Stroke Professionals Conference, hosted by the Stroke Association on Wednesday, brought together nurses, occupational therapists, consultants, physiotherapists and other specialists from across a range of stroke care.

Mr Nesbitt said: “I was pleased to attend the Stroke Association's conference where I had the opportunity to meet professionals working in this vital area, as well as those with lived experience of stroke.

“I very much welcome the solid progress that has been made against a range of priorities set out in the Stroke Action Plan and commend all those who have worked tirelessly to bring about improvements.

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt said some progress had been delayed by budget constraints

“While I am deeply frustrated that the current budget position has meant that we have been unable to move at the pace we would like and that we have been unable to realise our ambition of expanding thrombectomy to a 24/7 service, it remains important that we push ahead where possible. In this context, our focus for the next 12 months will be on the actions which can be progressed within the resources that are available."

The Stroke Association is the only stroke specific charity in NI providing lifelong support for all stroke survivors and their families.

Its Northern Ireland Director Alasdair O’Hara said, “We were delighted to have so many dedicated stroke professionals with us sharing current information, emerging research and the latest procedures.

“We’re especially grateful to the stroke survivors who shared their personal experiences to inspire those who treat the 4,000 people who are admitted to hospital here with stroke every year.”

The conference, at the Dunadry Hotel, Antrim, was co-hosted by Northern Ireland Multidisciplinary Association of Stroke Teams, a charitable organisation bringing together professionals from health and social care, the voluntary sector, education and research who have an interest in providing, delivering and improving stroke care.

The Stroke Association also used the conference to promote its stroke support helpline 0303 3033 100 which provides stroke survivors and carers with information and guidance on a wide range of stroke related issues.

The Stroke Association’s website www.stroke.org.uk/northern-ireland also offers a wide range of information and the ability to connect and chat with other stroke survivors and carers.