Background: The introduction of Telestroke across NSW has seen a rise in regional patients receiving reperfusion therapies for stroke. Consultation with the Rural Stroke Network showed a need for peer mentorship and knowledge exchange, to support stroke care coordinators and stroke champions in rural NSW. The Agency for Clinical Innovation (ACI) facilitated a mentorship program for clinicians working with stroke patients in rural settings.
Aims: To improve stroke services and equity of care for people in rural NSW by providing structured peer support and exposure to comprehensive stroke program activities for rural based stroke clinicians.
Methods: Each month 3 rural stroke clinicians participated in a 3 day program in metropolitan Sydney. Participants rotated through 4 hospitals and observed the activities of high volume stroke centres including stroke codes, thrombolysis treatment, clot retrieval procedures and multidisciplinary team meetings. Pre and post evaluations were conducted.
Results: 14 clinicians attended the program over 8 rounds in 2022/2023. Qualitative evaluation reflected the positive experience of participants and mentors: “The experience has helped me identify the areas that need more urgent attention and how to prioritise demands within the role.” “I have developed increased knowledge of role of stroke care coordinator /CNC for managing stroke calls / code stroke “This reminded me that I am part of a network that exists not only at my site or LHD but across the state. I now consider my Team as all of NSW stroke clinicians.”
Limitations: Quantitative evaluation data was collected however due to the low denominator its value was limited.
Conclusion: Based on the positive experience of both program participants and metropolitan site mentors it is recommended that the Rural Stroke Mentorship Program continues. It is also recommended that expansion of the program to include other specialities such as Cardiology and Intensive Care nursing is considered.