Recognizing Stroke: How to Access Medical Help
Medical assistance for stroke is provided free of charge under the state health guarantee program.
Inpatient care is available at no cost for patients brought in by an emergency response team, transferred from other healthcare facilities, or those self-presenting in critical condition.
In Odesa, three multi-profile hospitals provide inpatient care for stroke: City Clinical Hospitals No. 1, No. 10, and No. 11.
The treatment process includes an initial examination by a neurologist or neurosurgeon, as well as neuroimaging for all patients suspected of having a stroke within 60 minutes of arriving at the facility.
The hospitals in Odesa are equipped with CT scanners and modern angiographs for necessary diagnostics.
The guaranteed package of free medical assistance for stroke includes health monitoring, anesthesia, thrombolytic therapy, and laboratory tests.
Rehabilitation for patients begins as soon as possible after hospitalization, with consultations from speech therapists and psychologists within the first 72 hours.
Inpatient rehabilitation is conducted at Hospitals No. 1, No. 10, and No. 8.
Outpatient rehabilitation services are available at Hospitals No. 1, No. 10, No. 11, No. 8, and Diagnostic Center No. 29.
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The speed of getting to the hospital and receiving treatment significantly influences the outcome of stroke care. It is crucial to recognize stroke symptoms.
Remember the signs using the acronym BRAIN:
- Speech: speech disturbance;
- Face: facial asymmetry;
- Balance: loss of coordination, severe headache;
- Eyes: sudden vision changes;
- Limbs: weakness, numbness.
If stroke is suspected, immediately call 103! This could save a life.
