Advances in Health Policy 2007

Abstract

Notable advances have been made in stroke policy and outcomes research over the past year. Policy-relevant gray and published research is included in this review. The advances selected are organized under 3 areas: stroke policy and related evidence, predictive modeling, and quality improvement. ### The Role of Evidence in Stroke Policy Investments Different types of evidence are required at each stage in the development and implementation of large scale stroke strategies. The role of evidence was examined in the development of the Ontario Stroke System (a $30 million per year health policy initiative to improve stroke care in Ontario, Canada). Researchers identified key stages in the implementation process and the various types of evidence mobilized at each stage.1 The value of this research for stroke knowledge translation and policy is that evidence can be systematically organized and shared strategically to achieve policy commitments. ### Strategies for Improving Stroke Care The Helsingborg Declaration 2006 on European Stroke Strategies2 is a consensus document with substantial potential for influencing stroke policy in Europe. The Declaration states that by 2015 all persons in Europe with stroke should have access to a continuum of care in the acute phase including rehabilitation and secondary prevention. Clear goals for improving outcomes, the means to achieve them, and evaluation are outlined. The document also calls for a system to be established to incorporate new research into stroke care. In Canada, work continues on implementing the Canadian Stroke Strategy. The Canadian Stroke Network, a national center of excellence, has been a major contributor in developing research and knowledge translation toward improved policy and care.3 The policy challenge for Canada is that health is a provincial responsibility with substantially different health resources and commitments to stroke in each province. During 2007, several gains were made. For example, the Alberta Provincial Stroke Strategy was developed and a commitment of $1.1 million CDN was …