With the passing of the Primary Stroke Center Act (Public Act 96-514), stroke systems of care throughout Illinois will be strengthened. The law gives the Illinois Department of Public Health authority to designate Primary Stroke Centers, as well lower-tier Emergent Stroke Ready Hospitals. The law also provides for a system through which IDPH-designated EMS regions will put into place regionally-specific triage and transportation protocols for responding to potential stroke calls. Regional stroke task forces are being implemented with representation from hospitals, doctors and other stroke stakeholders.
While most stakeholders are “at the table” as new stroke systems are being planned and implemented, it is not clear who speaks for the stroke survivor. Since this group has significant direct experience with as well as a big stake in the success of stroke systems reform, it is essential that survivors and caregivers play a key role in representing their interests. They should also speak out in the interests of future stroke patients.
SSEEO will help stroke survivors, caregivers and medical professionals influence stroke systems reform in the interests of the patient by facilitating and coordinating their participation in every EMS region in Illinois. It is critical that health providers take an active role in advocating for their patients by supporting such efforts. SSEEO’s state-wide network of engaged volunteers who are interested in patient and public policy advocacy efforts are willing to ensure that stroke survivors are represented at the regional stroke task force level as the process moves forward.
SSEEO’s Mission: “To provide advocacy, support, education and resources to stroke survivors and their families.”
SSEEO understands that a true movement starts at the local level. Such groundbreaking success would not be possible without the support generated in communities across Illinois and the Midwest. We are proud of the momentum that SSEEO has gained over the years. With the help of sponsors, partners and countless volunteers, we celebrate the accomplishments of the local movement to date.
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