title: Developing comprehensive stroke services: an evidence-based approach.
abstract: The recent interest in the development of services for stroke patients reflects an increasing optimism about stroke management and the recognition that properly organised care can improve outcomes after stroke. A comprehensive stroke service should provide early assessment and investigation of stroke disease in both in-patient and out-patient settings, acute care for stroke in-patients to manage their medical and surgical problems, and rehabilitation for patients with persisting functional problems. Other components may include out-patient, day hospital or domiciliary rehabilitation facilities and continuing care and support facilities for patients discharged from hospital. This article discusses the evidence to support different components of a comprehensive stroke service and emphasises the need for flexible approaches to different local conditions.
authors.affiliation: Academic Section of Geriatric Medicine, Royal Infirmary, Glasgow, UK.
authors.forename: P
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Langhorne
mesh_terms: D002561:Cerebrovascular Disorders / Q000534:rehabilitation / Q000628:therapy*; D003191:Comprehensive Health Care / Q000458:organization & administration*; D003266:Continuity of Patient Care; D006757:Hospital Units; D006760:Hospitalization; D006801:Humans; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D012047:Rehabilitation Centers; D006113:United Kingdom