Care for patients after stroke. Results of a two-year prospective observational study from Mazowieckie province in Poland

Abstract

Background and purpose

Little has been published about different elements of the health services in long-term follow-up in the countries of Central and Eastern Europe. The aim of this study was to explore the health services for stroke patients in Poland.

Material and methods

Patients from 3 centres representing different levels of stroke care organization from Mazowieckie province were included. Data on first-ever stroke patients with “onset-to-door” time no longer than 7 days, consecutively admitted to participating centres between March 1 and June 30, 2002 were collected prospectively. Patients were assessed on admission, on discharge and 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months after discharge. Type of care, rehabilitation, readmissions, consultations and diagnostic procedures were evaluated.

Results

One hundred and sixty-four patients with first-ever stroke were included. Twenty-one patients died during hospitalization, and 36 during the two-year follow-up. Most patients were discharged home, under family care. The total rate of readmission decreased over time, from 58% to 11%, and so did the rate of rehabilitation, from 41.5% to 15%. All patients had been seen by their general practitioners and neurologists.

Conclusions

Post-stroke care is provided mostly by family members. Access to rehabilitation is limited and decreases over time. This study could help the authorities in healthcare budget allocation in Poland.