New Stroke Standard Highlights Vital Role of GPs in Recovery
11 Jun 2026
The Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care has updated its Stroke Clinical Care Standard for the first time since 2019. The revised guidance places greater emphasis on rehabilitation, personalised care planning and ongoing follow-up support for people recovering from stroke.
According to Commission Medical Advisor Dr Lee Fong, the effects of stroke can continue long after a patient leaves hospital, affecting their ability to work, study, care for others and manage daily activities. He said GPs play a central role in supporting patients throughout this longer recovery journey.
The updated standard includes eight quality statements designed to guide stroke care:
- Early assessment and urgent transport to hospital
- Time-critical treatment
- Stroke unit care
- Rehabilitation
- Reducing the risk of another stroke
- Support for families and carers
- Individualised care planning
- Follow-up assessment and review
Dr Fong said GPs should expect patients to leave hospital with a personalised care plan that is shared with their regular doctor. The revised standard also highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary review within six months of a stroke diagnosis, with arrangements made before discharge.
After discharge, GPs have an important role in preventing future strokes by managing risk factors such as atrial fibrillation, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
They are also well placed to identify physical, cognitive, emotional and social challenges that may not always be obvious during recovery. Ongoing monitoring can help ensure patients receive appropriate rehabilitation, specialist care and medication reviews.
Dr Fong noted that many stroke survivors experience loneliness and may need extra support navigating services after leaving hospital. This can include referrals to allied health professionals, driving assessments, disability support services and mental health care.
Neurologist Professor Tim Kleinig said follow-up stroke care remains inconsistent across Australia despite advances in treatment. He said the updated standard provides a clear picture of best-practice care, both during hospital treatment and after patients return home.
The aim of the revised standard is to help stroke survivors regain independence and return to their everyday lives as much as possible.
New Stroke Standard Highlights Vital Role of GPs in Recovery
Source: newsGP / Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care