Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre opened a new 12-bed unit on Wednesday to provide care for acute stroke patients.

The dedicated unit with a multi-disciplinary team of specially trained health professionals will significantly improve patient outcomes, result in shorter lengths of stay and reduce the likelihood of patients needing long-term care, according to the neurologist who is heading up the unit.

Image | Ayman Hassan

Caption: Having a dedicated team is key to providing top notch care, says Dr. Ayman Hassan, Neurologist and Medical Lead, Stroke and Neurology Service at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre. (Submitted by Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre)

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"The big difference is the team," Dr Ayman Hassan said. The dedicated unit "is the best way to provide the best care to this patient."

The creation of the stroke unit care follows the latest Health Quality Ontario recommendation, according to the hospital. Their care will include help with motor skills, coordination, speech, diet and medications.

"We run different tests to know where the stroke came from to help prevent another stroke and at the same time rehabilitation if the patient has residual deficits after the stroke," Hassan said.