Case management: improving outcomes of care for ischemic stroke patients

Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability in the United States. Health care reform and escalating health care costs have caused both consumers and health care providers to become more concerned regarding health care provision for stroke patients. A case management practice model used in a 540-bed teaching hospital resulted in improved outcomes for ischemic stroke patients in the areas of: (a) functional ability, (b) appointment compliance, (c) length of stay, and (d) cost.