The Great Lakes Regional Stroke Network Experience

Stroke is a leading cause of disability and the third leading cause of death among adults in the United States and in the Great Lakes states of Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin. The Great Lakes Regional Stroke Network was created to enhance collaboration and coordination among the Great Lakes states to reduce the burden of stroke and stroke-related disparities associated with race, sex, and geography. Three priorities were identified for reducing the effects of stroke in the Great Lakes region: 1) build epidemiologic capacity to improve stroke prevention and control efforts, 2) facilitate systems-level changes and collaborative efforts to improve acute stroke care and rehabilitation, and 3) promote awareness of the warning signs of stroke and the need to call 911. The Great Lakes Regional Stroke Network has work groups in the areas of epidemiology and surveillance, health care quality improvement, and public education. These groups recommend initiatives to states for their efforts to reduce the effects of stroke within the Great Lakes region. Examples of recommended initiatives include identifying and prioritizing state research evaluation needs for stroke, conducting a stroke education media campaign, and developing a statewide emergency medical services protocol for stroke.