New support phone service launched for recently discharged stroke survivors

THE Irish Heart Foundation has launched a new support helpline to assist stroke victims who have been discharged from hospital make the transition back to home living.

The ground breaking ‘check-in’ style service has been established in conjunction with the HSE’s National Stroke Programme in response to what the Foundation described as he “significant” reduction in community supports for stroke survivors.

They said this has arisen through a combination of illness and the redeployment of large numbers of healthcare professionals to tackle the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, coupled with earlier than usual discharge of many patients from hospitals.

The Foundation’s head of advocacy, Chris Macey, said that under any circumstances leaving the care of an expert team of doctors, nurses and physiotherapists to return home can be a hugely traumatic experience after suffering a brain injury.

“To do so without help to transition at a time of national health crisis and in many cases earlier than would normally be the case is a lot to ask of stroke patients,” said Mr Macey.

“We know from supporting stroke survivors the extreme impact that COVID-19 related anxiety and isolation is having on people who are well settled back in the community and are naturally eager step into the breach with the help of National Stroke Programme to provide this vital service to some of Ireland’s most vulnerable citizens,” he added.

It is estimated that around 7,500 people are hospitalised after a stroke in Ireland each year – the equivalent of 21 strokes a day nationwide and the majority of people will be discharged home after spending an average of around two weeks in hospital. Stroke survivors leaving hospital can be referred to the new phone support service by their clinician. Once a line of communication has been established trained Foundation staff and volunteers will make regular calls to check on peoples health and well-being and provide information and advice about recovery from stroke and ensuing their practical needs are met.

Professor Ronan Collins, HSE clinical lead for stroke, said that while the new service was primarily established for new survivors it can also be used to support recent, regardless of how long they have been living with the condition.

“Our message to every stroke survivor in the country is that if you need us, we are here for you,” he said.

In addition to the phone check-in service that actively makes calls to stroke patients, the Irish Heart Foundation’s nurse support line is available to answer questions any member of the public may have on any aspect of heart disease and stroke. Nurses can be contacted by calling 01 668 5001 or emailing support@irishheart.ie.