Developed by a coalition
of respected professional organizations, this web site provides "tools
for health care professionals developing systems to enable the rapid diagnosis
and treatment of acute stroke." Included are links to stroke guidelines,
pathways, orders, scales, and information for the public.
A division of American
Heart Association, the American Stroke Association is a nonprofit organization
dedicated to decreasing the impact of stroke through programs, products and
services for health care professionals, consumers and stroke survivors. Its
web site includes extensive information on stroke awareness, stroke prevention,
stroke treatment, and stroke rehabilitation.
CHASA is a relatively new
non-profit organization that offers support and information for families of
children who have hemiplegia, hemiparesis, and/or pediatric stroke. Its website
is written from the perspective of its founder, who is the parent of a child
with hemiplegia. Thought a bit disorganized, the site provides wonderful tidbits
of information (driving, buying shoes, riding bikes) and lots of links to
related subjects. The online support resources (e-mail, chat, etc.) are particularly
worthwhile.
A service of the Washington
University School of Medicine, the Internet Stroke Center provides stroke
information for patients, family members, and professionals. A clinical trials
directory and local/regional information are also included.
NINDS is a federal agency
that conducts and supports research on the causes, prevention, diagnosis,
and treatment of neurological disorders and stroke. Its web site includes
authoritative information
for consumers as well as current research and research opportunities.
A national nonprofit organization
whose mission is "to reduce the incidence and impact of this life-threatening
medical condition," NSA provides education, services and community-based
activities in prevention, treatment, rehabilitation and recovery. Its web
site includes information for consumers and professionals, including regional
chapters and stroke centers.
"An on-line stroke
support and information organization designed... to provide support for stroke
survivors and caregivers of adult stroke," this web site includes mailing
lists, message boards, chat meetings, e-zine, an "ask the expert"
section, and related resources.