Australia’s first “stroke ambulance” is set to become operational in Melbourne this March
Australia’s first “stroke ambulance”, capable of diagnosing and treating suspected stroke patients on first response, is set to become operational in Melbourne this March.
The state government has promised $7.5 million over four years to trial the research program, which has seen successes in Germany and the US already.
A specially-made vehicle with a CT scanner, laboratory and telemedicine equipment will enable first responders to immediately begin assessing and treating patients with lifesaving thrombolysis.
Scans and other information will be sent ahead to the hospital and specialists to help begin treatment in the field and streamline treatment on arrival.
The ambulance will also be able to take patients to the most appropriate hospital stroke unit.
Stroke Foundation CEO Sharon McGowan welcomed government’s announcement to help fund the project to tackle one of Australia’s leading causes of death and disability.
“Following a stroke, brain cells die at a rate of 1.9 million a minute. Time critical medical treatments can stop and even reverse this damage,” she said.
“Time saved is brain saved, faster diagnosis and treatment in the Stroke Ambulance can save lives and reduce disability.”
The ambulance is a joint effort by the Stroke Foundation, Victorian government, Melbourne Health, University of Melbourne, Ambulance Victoria and the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health.
