Healthcare Providers came together to discuss stroke prevention in the primary care setting in Belleville on April 23, 2025. The goal of the event was to share information about primary and secondary stroke prevention and to identify challenges and potential areas to improve stroke prevention efforts in Hastings and Prince Edward Counties. Feedback from the event was extremely positive with attendees stating that it was a “great event” and “excellent presentation”. Key learnings from the event were identified as recognition of the quality of stroke care in the area, the importance of public awareness and calling 911, the awareness of community resources and information on antiplatelet therapy.
Dr. Samis, Intensivist at Quinte Health highlighted the importance of ensuring public awareness about the signs of stroke, recognizing that most of the time “stroke doesn’t hurt”. Time is critical and FAST action is needed to activate the comprehensive stroke system available in HPE!
Speakers highlighted current evidence-based practices in Hastings and Prince Edwards Counties in hyperacute care, acute care, rehabilitation, stroke prevention, and community supports. The group discussed resources for primary care related to stroke prevention. Collaborative discussions focused first on challenges in providing stroke prevention in primary care and followed with opportunities to address these challenges. Some of the identified opportunities were:
- Education and better flow of information across transitions
- Public education and awareness of stroke
- Training and education/support for caregivers
This event concludes the “Reconnecting Stroke Prevention – A Primary Care Update” series of events that occurred in Brockville, Perth, Kingston, and Belleville. The Stroke Network of Southeastern Ontario plans to review the opportunities identified at these events and consider ways to continue to support stroke prevention efforts in the primary care setting.