Identifying the signs of stroke and calling 911 can make a difference
While the information contained in this news article was current and accurate when we posted it, it may not necessarily represent current WVOEMS policy or procedure. If you have any questions, please contact our office at 304-558-3956.
Posted: Friday, May 25, 2018 7:07 AM
Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability not only in WV, but also nationally. Calling 911 within 1 hour of symptom onset is done in fewer than 50% of stroke cases. Fewer than 50% of callers knew they were calling about a stroke-related symptom. In spite of proven benefits of 911 and emergency medical services (EMS) use, a National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (NHAMCS) showed that 53% of stroke patients used EMS.