Unmet needs for stroke patients based on the social ecological model: protocol for a mixed-methods systematic review

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Public Health
• Evidence-Based Medicine

Background:

• Stroke is a major cause of death, disability, and economic burden globally.
• Stroke survivors experience diverse and universal unmet needs impacting their health outcomes.
• Current understanding of these unmet needs requires comprehensive synthesis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a mixed-methods systematic review to identify and synthesize unmet needs in stroke patients.
• To map identified needs to the social-ecological model for a holistic understanding.
• To inform future research and clinical practice for improved stroke patient care.

Main Methods:

• Systematic search of multiple databases (PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, etc.) and grey literature.
• Inclusion of quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods studies published in English or Chinese (Jan 2018 - Apr 2026).
• Data synthesis using convergent integrated approach and thematic synthesis, with quality appraisal using MMAT and certainty assessment using GRADE and GRADE-CERQual.

Main Results:

• This section will be populated upon completion of the review.
• Anticipated results include a comprehensive list of unmet needs across various domains (physical, psychological, social, etc.).
• Categorization of needs based on the social-ecological model.

Conclusions:

• This systematic review will provide a comprehensive overview of unmet needs in stroke patients.
• Findings will highlight critical areas for intervention to improve patient outcomes and quality of life.
• The study aims to guide healthcare providers and policymakers in addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by stroke survivors.