Telestroke services can improve access to stroke thrombolysis. To address challenges of night time coverage we explored the feasibility of an international telestroke service between Scotland and New Zealand taking advantage of international time zone differences. After addressing medico-legal, governance, and technical issues we tested this international service model and here we present the first 5 cases. Based on our initial experience this new model of care appears feasible and has the potential to improve patient care through reduced doctor fatigue and improved access to expert care in regions where stroke specialist input is limited.
Keywords: Stroke; Telestroke; health service delivery; thrombolysis.
Copyright © 2016 National Stroke Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.