Stroke survival rate data is cause for concern according to medical law expert

01 Dec 2011

Angela Kirtley, a medical law and patient rights’ expert in Irwin Mitchell’s Newcastle office has revealed her concerns over reports which state that survival rates for stroke patients are 50 per cent higher in hospitals in London, compared to those from outside the city.

The Sunday Telegraph report states that an NHS investigation revealed that death rates within 30 days of admission for stroke treatment are at 14.6 per cent in central London hospitals. The report goes on to mention that hospitals in industrial cities and smaller, more rural areas were the worst performing.

According to Angela Kirtley these trends highlight major concerns that a postcode lottery has developed in relation to the care available for stroke patients.

She said: “All patients should have access to the best possible standards of care and treatment, regardless of where they live or the hospitals they are treated at. This data highlights a worrying trend that many people living outside London who have suffered strokes are not getting the support they need at an incredibly difficult time.

“Such information is going to raise serious concerns with a huge number of people, including the families of those who are seeking help to recover from strokes.

“We hope that the NHS can work quickly to get to grips with the quality of care it is offering to stroke victims and ensure they are getting timely and comprehensive support in their battles following the problems.”

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