| April 12, 2010 MLA Plays Stroke Patient to Launch Telestroke at CGH VICTORIA- Chilliwack MLA John Les spoke in the Legislature today to celebrate the launch of Telestroke at Chilliwack General Hospital. “Last Friday I had the opportunity to play the role of a stroke victim to help launch the Telestroke initiative at the Chilliwack General Hospital. Although I was fortunately only acting, I was able to put myself into the shoes of someone who had experienced a stroke. “Telestroke allows neurology specialists at a tertiary hospital to examine diagnose and help treat patients at other hospitals. With Telestroke, a patient is able to "see" a specialist within minutes of arriving in emergency. “Doctors at Chilliwack General connect by video conference with neurologists working out of Vancouver General Hospital and consult directly in order to make quick decisions for their stroke patients. The faster a stroke is treated, the less brain and neurological damage a patient will sustain. “Telestroke is an excellent technology with incredible outcomes. It brings specialists and doctors hundreds of kilometers apart face to face, and it bridges the gap between patients and the very best specialists available. “I know that Chilliwack General is excited to have Telestroke available and can now assure that it is able to offer patients the best care possible while often avoiding the need to transfer patients by ambulance to Vancouver and elsewhere. “As for me, I'm glad I was only acting the part of a stroke patient. But it is reassuring to know that Telestroke is there for our community. “In the past I've personally seen how friends and acquaintances have been devastated by the results of a stroke. Telestroke will help to alleviate and avoid those impacts for many patients and their families. For that, many people in Chilliwack will be very grateful.” To learn more about the benefits of Telstroke at CGH, visit BC Stroke Strategy or Fraser Health Authority. -30- | |
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