Telestroke 10 years later--'telestroke 2.0'

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Telemedicine
• Health Informatics

Background:

• Physician shortages in specialized stroke care impede quality treatment and research.
• Existing telestroke systems have limitations in connectivity and functionality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce Telestroke 2.0, an advanced web-based telemedicine system for stroke care.
• To address limitations of previous telestroke systems and expand stroke expertise.

Main Methods:

• Development of an integrative web-based telestroke system.
• Incorporation of high-quality audiovideo, desktop/laptop access for consults and teleradiology.
• Integration of decision support, technical support, billing, and electronic medical record connectivity.

Main Results:

• Facilitates development of statewide/regional telestroke networks and addresses coverage gaps.
• Enhances acute stroke research through increased trial efficiency and broader recruitment.
• Improves trial validity and generalizability of results to community settings.

Conclusions:

• Telestroke 2.0 enhances stroke care delivery and research capabilities.
• System diffusion and sustainability depend on improved reimbursement for acute stroke and telestroke services.