NHS STROKE STRATEGY MUST MATCH INTERNATIONAL BEST PRACTICE - LAMB

1.57.00pm UTC (GMT +0000) Wed 5th Dec 2007

Commenting on the new stroke strategy announced today, Liberal Democrat Shadow Health Secretary, Norman Lamb MP said: "Proposals to raise awareness of the early signs of strokes as well as improving care for stroke survivors are very welcome."

"Despite increased investment, we are still lagging behind standards of care in Europe. Ministers have to make sure that the good ideas in this strategy are actually implemented to ensure the NHS matches international best practice."

"Lives are being lost when stroke victims aren't diagnosed in time and survivors often have to deal with a lifetime of disability. Extra investment at an early stage will both save lives and reduce the cost to the NHS of more expensive after care."