Karnataka’s first “Stroke Care” ambulance launched

Bengaluru: SPARSH Hospital, one of the leading super speciality hospitals in Bengaluru, has started the first ever Stroke Care Ambulance service in Karnataka. This is the first-of-its-kind service in Karnataka which will aid the patient in getting treatment right from the get-go. The helpline number is 080 – 61222000 and the service has been available for use 24/7 from 9^th November 2019 across Bangalore.

 A stroke, or brain attack, is caused by the sudden loss of blood flow to the brain (ischemic stroke) or bleeding inside the head (haemorrhagic stroke). As the brain cells are starved of blood and oxygen, they initially stop functioning, and later die. As more cells are damaged by the minute, more permanent damage is caused to the patient, affecting their motor skills, speech and language, memory etc. Stroke is the second most common cause of death Worldwide, says the World Health Organization.  Every one minute three Indians suffer a stroke, with close to 90% of patients not being able to reach hospitals in time, according to the Indian Stroke Association.

 The first 6 hours are termed as ‘Golden Period’ because the treatment provided within this time, can determine the extent of residual damage on the brain cells. 2 out 3 stroke patients can be fully revived if treatment reaches them in time.

 A mobile tele-stroke unit can prove to be a boon to a patient who lives in a busy city or in a remote place alike. A doctor sitting at a hospital can examine the patient with audio-visual equipment, diagnose the type and cause of stroke, run basic blood tests, and even start the initial treatment right from the ambulance till they are brought to the hospital. A service like this can aid the patient’s overall treatment tremendously and ensure a higher success rate.

 SPARSH Hospital is leading in service quality with advanced MRI, CT, Cath lab facilities and top-notch Neurologists and Specialists at the aid of the patients. With this new service in place, the team at SPARSH are optimistic about helping and healing a wider population.