Synopsis

Stroke is a major health care issue in Australia, with over 60,000 new cases of stroke each year. Designated hospital-based stroke units and rehabilitation services have also proven integral to improved stroke survival. Despite this many stroke survivors are discharged directly home from the hospital where they often realize the extent of their disabilities, often not identified during their hospitalization. Furthermore, they are at risk for complications such as falls, physical de-conditioning, aspiration pneumonia, infections, social isolation and depression as well as recurrent stroke. Concern stems from evidence that many stroke survivors do not access essential rehabilitation services. The purpose of this study is to investigate the prospective experience of stroke in women participating in the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women’s Health (ALSWH). Specifically, we will focus on characterising access to health service use.