STROKE patients in Worcestershire are being failed by the NHS, says a new “disquieting and unsettling” report.

Not enough patients who suffer strokes are treated in dedicated stroke units according to a performance report, even though they have a 25 per cent better chance of survival if they are cared for in these specialist units. The report was discussed by health chiefs at the last meeting of NHS Worcestershire in Kidderminster Town Hall where it was revealed that so far this financial year (April to July), only 29.70 per cent of stroke patients have spent more than 90 per cent of their time on a dedicated stroke unit.

This is well below the national target of 70 per cent and the West Midlands average of 50.45 per cent.

Paul Bates, chief executive of NHS Worcestershire, said at the meeting: “We had national guidance on stroke care a few years ago and we know what works and we know what makes a difference to a patient’s recovery.

“If you reach a stroke unit, you’re going to have a better progression and a better recovery. It’s not happening – not just here but in lots of parts of the country.

“That’s very disquieting and unsettling.”

Julie Ainscow, regional communications officer for the Stroke Association, said: “In support of the National Stroke Strategy, The Stroke Association calls for all patients with suspected stroke to have access to hyper-acute stroke services.

“Evidence shows that patients treated in a designated acute stroke unit face a 25 per cent higher survival rate than those who are not.

“Stroke is a brain attack, and medical emergency time lost is brain lost, so it’s vital that patients are diagnosed and treated as quickly as possible. It is important to note that The Stroke Association has recently been commissioned by the Worcester Primary Care Trust to provide a family and carer support service to those affected by stroke across Worcestershire. The service goes beyond addressing the needs of the acute stroke patient, and offers continued emotional support and practical advice to those who are faced with t rebuilding their lives.”