Is the Primary Stroke Center required to have a neurosurgeon?

No. The Primary Stroke Center is not required to have a neurosurgeon; however, there must be a referral mechanism in place to provide for neurosurgical care within two hours. -Top- • Can a (Board Certified) Emergency Department physician order IV t-PA using the CPGs and clinical protocols without consulting a neurologist or the stroke team? Yes. However, it is recommended that the stroke team physician approve the clinical protocols or pathways. -Top- • What data tool or format do you need to use for measuring stroke care and performance? You can use any tool, providing you collect the specified data elements using the data definitions specified by The Joint Commission. You may find the implementation guide on The Joint Commission website helpful in this regard. -Top- • Can we appoint co-medical directors to our Stroke Program? This is acceptable. However, be prepared to explain the clinical decision-making process in place involving two medical directors, including the process for ...