SPEEDY

Jul 15, 2025 | Research, Research project-active

Project summary

Stroke is a common medical emergency that requires quick treatment to reduce death and disability. A thrombectomy removes clots from large arteries in the brain. In SCAS only John Radcliffe Hospital and University Hospital Southampton can perform Thrombectomy. Many patients will not live near these hospitals and will first be taken to a local stroke unit and rely on an ambulance transfer if Thrombectomy is required. This can cause a delay to treatment, which typically for this is 90 minutes, but can be more in busy periods. Longer delays can reduce the benefit of Thrombectomy.

SPEEDY is looking at a direct admission pathway for our patients in Hampshire, to University Hospital Southampton following a discussion between ambulance staff who are randomised to use the SPEEDY pathway and the University Hospital Southampton stroke team.

Patient Group

Suspected stroke patients who present with new arm weakness and new speech problems.   

Participating areas in SCAS

Hampshire is the only county currently included. Staff in Hampshire have been randomly split by the study team, to either use the SPEEDY stroke pathway or standard stroke care.

We are currently in discussions with John Radcliffe Hospital about extending this for patients in the Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, and Oxfordshire areas.

How are patients selected for this project?

The current symptoms of the patient and the attending ambulance crew will determine whether the SPEEDY pathway or standard care are used.

Closing date

Ongoing, due to close 30 December 2025.  

 

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