Acute stroke management in the Caribbean: a scoping review protocol

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Public Health
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Stroke is a major cause of death and disability in the Caribbean.
• Limited data exists on diagnostic imaging and treatment availability and utilization for stroke care.
• Healthcare inequities may worsen stroke outcomes in the region's low-resource settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To map existing literature on access to diagnostic and therapeutic modalities for adult stroke care in the Caribbean.
• To identify limitations in acute stroke treatment and their impact on outcomes.
• To inform strategies for improving stroke care access in resource-limited Caribbean communities.

Main Methods:

• A three-step literature search strategy based on the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology.
• Searches will cover 1 January 1995 to 1 June 2025, focusing on ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke in the Caribbean.
• Studies will be screened by two independent reviewers following PRISMA-ScR guidelines.

Main Results:

• This section will present findings on the availability and utilization of diagnostic imaging (e.g., neuroimaging) and acute treatment options for stroke.
• The review will highlight gaps in stroke centers, prehospital management, and emergent treatment capacity.
• Data will illustrate how restricted access to these modalities impacts stroke patient outcomes.

Conclusions:

• The review will provide a comprehensive overview of stroke care access in the Caribbean.
• Identified limitations will guide the development of targeted interventions to enhance stroke management.
• Findings will support efforts to reduce stroke-related mortality and disability in the region.