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Setting Up a Stroke Team Algorithm and Conducting Simulation-based Training in the Emergency Department - A Practical Guide
Published on: January 15, 2017
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Geospatial Analysis to Determine Optimal Distribution of Mobile Stroke Units
Ryan Ramphul1, Yanchen Liu1, James C Grotta2
1Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics and Environmental Science, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, School of Public Health (R.R., Y.L.).
Stroke
|August 4, 2025
Summary
Mobile stroke units (MSUs) can significantly improve stroke treatment access, especially in rural Texas. Geospatial analysis shows MSUs can reach 99.1% of stroke patients, increasing rural access by 279%.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Public Health
- Geospatial Analysis
Background:
- Mobile stroke units (MSUs) offer faster stroke treatment and improved outcomes.
- MSU deployment strategies differ between urban and rural settings due to cost and logistical challenges.
- Geospatial analysis is a valuable tool for optimizing the distribution of MSUs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the potential impact of Mobile Stroke Units (MSUs) on stroke treatment accessibility in Texas using geospatial analysis.
- To determine the optimal distribution of MSUs to maximize patient reach, particularly in underserved rural areas.
- To compare potential MSU treatment reach against existing emergency medical services (EMS) transport capabilities.
Main Methods:
- Geo-coding of Texas state-designated level I or II stroke centers.
- Mapping of 30-, 60-, 120-, and 180-minute drive-time buffers around potential MSU centers.
- Superimposing drive-time buffers onto stroke patient distribution data, including rural, vulnerable, and minority populations.
Main Results:
- A 180-minute buffer around 14 potential MSU centers indicated 99.1% of adult stroke patients in Texas could receive treatment within 3 hours.
- This MSU deployment strategy represents a 16.6% net increase in treated patients compared to the base case, with a 279% increase in rural patient access.
- A 120-minute buffer increased total and rural treatments by 12.3% and 232%, respectively, while a 60-minute buffer showed no net increase but faster care for 600,101 patients.
Conclusions:
- Geospatial analysis demonstrates that Mobile Stroke Units (MSUs) can significantly expand access to rapid stroke treatment across Texas, including remote rural areas.
- The strategic deployment of MSUs can substantially increase the number of patients receiving timely thrombolysis, improving potential outcomes.
- These findings provide a valuable framework for healthcare planners aiming to optimize emergency stroke care delivery statewide and beyond.
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