Legacy Stroke Program
Paul R. Ash, MD, Medical Director, Legacy Stroke Program
Contact us: 503-692-2519
Stroke is the third-leading cause of death in the United States and the leading cause of long-term disability in adults. But even though stroke is a serious and common disease, patients who are treated quickly and effectively often have excellent recoveries.
Legacy offers a nationally recognized program to help people survive strokes and improve their quality of life afterwards. Our stroke team and specialized stroke units provide efficient, coordinated care aimed at the best possible outcomes. From the emergency department and intensive care unit through treatment and rehabilitation, every effort is made to help our patients recover as fully as possible.
Go Red for Women
Legacy Good Samaritan Medical Center and the American Heart Association co-sponsored the 2009 Go Red for Women Breakfast on July 24, 2009. This year's topic was "Women's Stroke Awareness: What Women of All Ages Should Know." Watch videos of the presentations from this event.
A national leader
We're constantly looking for ways to improve every aspect of our stroke care to ensure that we exceed national quality standards. That's why the American Heart and Stroke Association and The Joint Commission have designated our hospitals among the best in the United States for stroke care.
All of Legacy's hospitals offer specialized stroke services. For more information, please call Legacy's patient care specialist for stroke at 503-692-2519.
A full spectrum of services
Legacy's stroke services include:
- Emergency care
- Specialized stroke unit
- Advanced imaging capabilities
- Full diagnostic services
- Surgical support
- Intensive care
- Training and education
- Rehabilitation services
- Discharge planning
A team effort
A Legacy stroke team is a cooperating group of specialized professionals:
- Stroke Team Registered Nurse: Specially trained to act as the team leader to coordinate the work of the entire team.
- Physician: Supervises and cares for medical problems related to the stroke. One doctor is designated the primary doctor or attending physician. This doctor may be a neurologist (a specialist in the brain or nervous system), neurosurgeon, internal medicine specialist or family physician.
- Physical Therapist: Determines which exercises will best maintain strength and function and assists in overcoming any losses.
- Occupational Therapist: Teaches patients the skills that promote independence.
- Speech Language Pathologist: Assists in overcoming speech, language and swallowing disorders.
- Pharmacist: Reviews and coordinates the use of all medications, especially those used for stroke treatment.
- Dietitian: Helps patients and caregivers plan meals to help with weight control, cholesterol levels or any other concerns with diet, swallowing or eating.
- Clinical Resource Coordinator: Plans for discharge to ensure the proper levels of support and works with Legacy and other providers to meet rehabilitation needs.
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