Figures released by the Scottish Stroke Care Audit (SSCA) National Report show NHS Lanarkshire is one of the best performing health boards for stroke services.

Katrina Brennan, stroke managed clinical network (MCN) manager, said: “The most important indicator of the performance of stroke services is the performance against the Stroke Care Bundle. The Scottish average for individuals receiving the appropriate bundle is 65% while in Lanarkshire we are achieving 83%.

“This is a fantastic achievement and a testimony to the hard work of all the staff involved which ultimately benefits patients on the stroke care pathway.”

NHS Lanarkshire storke services is already exceeding their target for improvement to be achieved by end of March 2015.

Dr Mark Barber, stroke MCN clinical lead, said: “Over 1000 people in Lanarkshire have a stroke every year and, contrary to popular belief, a stroke is not something that only happens to older people as about a quarter occur in the under 65s.

“It is essential people recognise a stroke when it’s happening and take prompt action. Delay increases the risk of death or major long-term disabilities, such as paralysis and communication problems. It is vital that the symptoms are not just ignored.”

Picture caption (left to right): Katrina Brennan, NHS Lanarkshire stroke managed clinical network (MCN) manager, Campbell Chalmers, NHS Lanarkshire stroke nurse consultant and Dr Mark Barber, NHS Lanarkshire stroke MCN clinical lead hosted an event to inform health professionals and members of the public about the work of the NHS Lanarkshire Stroke MCN.