National Stroke Foundation opens first state office in Tas

Tasmanian stroke survivors can expect improved stroke services across the state with the opening of the National Stroke Foundation’s Tasmanian office.

The National Stroke Foundation will be taking on some of the stroke services that had previously been provided by the Brain Foundation, while aiming to build on this work with the roll out of a targeted, focused strategy for stroke in the state.

“This will be a new face, a new approach and a new direction for stroke survivors in Tassie,” said state manager, Connie Digolis.

“This move will enable us to better respond to the needs of Tasmanians, including those who will now have a better chance of avoiding a stroke and those who are living with one,” Ms Digolis said.

“With more than three out of four people who have a stroke aged over 65 and an increasing older population in Tasmania, stroke is a significant issue for the community,” she said.

The National Stroke Foundation’s first move has been to increase its presence across the state, with a new staff member to be based in Launceston, in addition to the staff in the Hobart office.

Dr Erin Lalor, chief executive officer of the National Stroke Foundation, said the foundation was delighted to be opening its first state office in Tasmania.

“Our priorities in Tasmania and across the country are to increase awareness, education and prevention of stroke, improve treatment for stroke, improve life after stroke for stroke survivors and facilitate research into stroke,” Dr Lalor said.