Background
Patients in regional NSW experience inequitable access to specialist stroke care compared to metropolitan areas. This project examines the feasibility and acceptance of implementing a TeleMDT with stroke specialist neurologist support in regional NSW, utilising existing resources.
Methods
One pilot site was recruited following initial NSW Telestroke service implementation. Patient and clinician data was collected via survey, with diagnosis, medication, and investigation changes captured through a stroke data base system. Clinician survey respondents included occupational therapists, physiotherapists, speech pathologists, basic physician trainees, medical consultants, and nurses. Patients with high clinical complexity who could meaningfully engage in virtual consultation were surveyed.
Results
Data was collected between March and December 2025. During this period, 141 patients were discussed in the TeleMDT meetings resulting in diagnosis changes in 19%, changes to diagnostic investigations in 27% and secondary prevention medication changes in 22.5%, demonstrating tangible clinical impact. Twelve clinicians responded via survey, with 100% agreeing that access to the stroke specialist neurologist increased evidence-based treatment decisions, provided clinically valuable input, and was effective in virtual format. Five patient surveys were collected. All patients (100%) were aware their case was discussed in the TeleMDT with stroke specialist contribution and were satisfied with information provided about diagnosis, medications, and investigation results.
Conclusion
A TeleMDT incorporating stroke specialist neurologist support, building on existing resources to support equitable stroke care in regional NSW, is feasible and beneficial to both patients and clinicians.