Overlake Medical Center Reduces Time to Thrombectomy by 39 Minutes

Overlake Medical Center is a Certified Joint Commission Thrombectomy-Capable Stroke Center in the Seattle, WA area. Recently, they posted an article detailing an inspiring stroke survival story. The article also discusses the Overlake's recent efforts to improve treatment times for stroke patients: 

"Overlake’s stroke program has received numerous awards over the years, reflecting its commitment to providing patients the latest technologies and innovative treatments. Staying true to that commitment, the hospital recently implemented use of a smartphone app called Pulsara that mobilizes the stroke care team with a single tap.

Diagnosing and treating stroke is a complex process; it requires upwards of 50 individuals across more than a dozen hospital departments—from physicians in multiple specialties to nurses and imaging staff. The app works as a communication tool for team members to coordinate care through streamlined communication.

'Pulsara has given us a platform to coordinate and act quickly, sharing imaging, discussing plans for treatment and following up on results,' explains David Likosky, MD, medical director, stroke and neurohospitalist programs.

The American Stroke Association’s guideline to administer tPA is within 60 minutes from the time a patient comes arrives at the hospital. Overlake does it in 33 minutes, a 12-minute reduction since the launch of the app.

The guideline to perform thrombectomy is less than 90 minutes from hospital arrival. Overlake’s stroke team now accomplishes this procedure within 67 minutes, a 39-minute reduction." Continue reading.

It is healthcare leaders like Overlake who help Pulsara realize our mission of improving the lives of patients and caregivers through innovative communication. It's About People.