A PRACTICAL GUIDE FOR EUROPEAN STROKE ORGANIZATION (ESO) STROKE UNIT ACCREDITATION OF ACUTE STROKE-READY CLINICS IN GREECE

Abstract

Recent advances in acute ischemic stroke treatment have ended, in theory, the therapeutic nihilism towards
stroke. In practice, implementation of approved treatments still lags in many European countries. European
Stroke Organization (ESO) Stroke Unit accreditation process is the first step for improving the quality of
stroke services. The process is simple and straightforward but users unaccustomed with quality procedures
may be intimidated by the requested documentation. Moreover, high variation of health systems among
European countries may further complicate the presentation of an acute stroke-ready center in a way to
fit the definition of an ESO-accredited stroke unit. The present narrative review may help the interested
stroke physicians formulate a comprehensive presentation of their center in order to facilitate accreditation
of those acute stroke-ready centers that have established high standards of stroke care. Several free
online resources concerning stroke education and accreditation will be provided. This document will also
address specific characteristics of the stroke health services in Greece, highlighting suboptimal practices in
the hope to initiate actions to promote adherence to ESO standards. Translating recent scientific advances
into current stroke care in Greece is a major challenge for Greek stroke physicians and collaboration with
public health agencies is necessary to achieve high quality care for stroke patients in Greece.