New NHS stroke scheme will save hundreds of lives

NHS England and NHS Improvement have launched a new £9 million programme to spot heart conditions earlier; saving at least 200 lives and offering protection to thousands more. The scheme, which will run until next March, will see almost 20,000 people at higher risk of experiencing a stroke receive targeted checks and treatment as part of The NHS Long Term Plan’s renewed focus on preventing and tackling killer conditions.

Patients will be identified by specialist nurses or clinical pharmacists who are trained to treat a heart condition called atrial fibrillation, which increases the chance of having a stroke. Anyone identified as being at risk will be offered a personalised treatment plan developed with their GP.