Stroke patients forced to endure long waits for ambulances have been putting their health at risk by taking themselves to A&E, a charity has warned.
Waiting for emergency services remains the “fastest and most efficient way to get the best treatment and care for stroke”, according to the Stroke Association.
With paramedics knowing which hospitals have stroke clinics, patients looking for urgent help have been advised to call 999 and, as a result, will be more likely to have specialist treatment.
When an individual suffers a stroke, it is vital to act within a certain timeframe to minimise the risk of death as well as brain damage.
Waiting for an ambulance is the 'fastest and most efficient' method to get the best care for a stroke
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The startling statistics have revealed that, across England, Wales and Northern Ireland, a stroke patient has opted to take themselves to A&E over waiting for an ambulance every 22 minutes.
In fact, more than a quarter (26.8 per cent) of stroke patients claimed to have made their own way into the emergency department over the course of 2024/5, the Sentinel Stroke National Audit Programme reported.
Although this figure has been gradually rising over the years, it has now reached the highest it has ever been since the audit began.
Medical director of the Stroke Association, Professor Deb Lowe, said: “Stroke is a medical emergency so anyone who is experiencing symptoms should call 999 and wait for an ambulance.
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“We have long supported the NHS’s Fast campaign which highlights the most common symptoms of stroke – facial drooping, arm weakness, slurred speech – as that’s when it is time to call 999.
“Even with the undeniable pressures the NHS is experiencing, we stand firm on that advice as it is the best way to get rapid and evidence-based care.”
She explained that, as the population continues to age, her team expects the number of stroke patients to increase by half to 151,000 by 2035.
“It is vital each and every person affected by stroke gets the treatment they need as quickly as possible,” the professor warned.
It is 'vital' that stroke patients receive treatment as quickly as possible
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“We do understand people’s concerns about long ambulance waits but, in most cases, it’s still the fastest and most efficient way to get the best treatment and care for stroke.
“This is especially pertinent when supported by technologies, such as prehospital video triage, which can help diagnose stroke on the road to a specialist stroke unit.
“Getting to the right place for rapid and effective treatment can make the difference between a stroke patient walking out of hospital or leaving in a wheelchair.”