Stroke is the third leading cause of death in Yolo County, as well as a leading cause of disabilities. Strokes are happening to men, women and sometimes even children, although such cases are rare. New, innovative treatments can be highly effective in keeping patients alive and minimizing complications; however, the success of these treatments often hinges on getting the patient to a hospital quickly - preferably a medical facility that specializes in treating strokes.
To combat the risks associated with stroke, Woodland Healthcare created a new Stroke Team and Strike Out Stroke public education campaign.
Gone are the days when having a stroke meant that the victim was guaranteed to face the rest of their life in a wheelchair, if he/she survived at all. Today, patients who receive fast, effective treatments have a much higher chance of going on to lead active, productive lives after experiencing a stroke.
Woodland Healthcare's Stroke Team, led by neurologist Halima Karim, MD, was formed to improve outcomes for as many patients as possible. The team consists of a highly experienced group of neurologists, emergency physicians and staff members, hospitalists and nurse specialists ready to care for patients at the first signs of a stroke. Upon arriving at Woodland Memorial Hospital, every patient experiencing signs of a stroke receives emergency treatment and access to ongoing stroke rehabilitation, which can help to further reduce complications.and access to ongoing stroke rehabilitation, which can help to further reduce complications.
"It takes a well organized team to ensure that the best possible results are achieved for every patient," says Philip Laughlin, MD, Woodland Healthcare's Vice President of Medical Affairs. "This is important because stroke can be such a debilitating disease and any opportunity to help save lives in our community is an opportunity we want to take."
In addition to having a great team, much of the success of the Strike Out Stroke program requires community awareness; therefore, Woodland Healthcare is also offering free community education classes to teach residents to recognize the signs of stroke, in detail.
Once people know how to spot the signs, they'll be able to act fast, calling 9-1-1 and getting help for themselves or their loved-ones, friends and neighbors, should a stroke occur. Participants will receive valuable instruction on recognizing obvious signs of stroke, as well as some of the more subtle signs. Free stroke screenings will also be offered, along with guidance on stroke prevention.
