Comprehensive primary care is vital to holistic care and optimal recovery after a stroke

Summary: Getting primary care quickly after a stroke is incredibly important for a good recovery. Every year, about 800,000 adults in the U.S. have a stroke. After leaving the hospital, patients are at a high risk for having another stroke or facing new challenges like depression, memory issues, or falls. Right now, people wait an average of 27 days to see their regular doctor. However, experts at the American Stroke Association say that the first doctor's visit should happen within 1 to 3 weeks. Seeing a primary care doctor early helps check things like blood pressure and cholesterol, prevents return trips to the hospital, and gets patients the extra help they need. Your primary doctor is the team captain for your long-term health and recovery.

For more details, see American Heart Association Newsroom at newsroom.heart.org/news/comprehensive-primary-care-is-vital-to-holistic-care-and-optimal-recovery-after-a-stroke (opens in new tab)