The Memorial Hermann Health System in Houston has been awarded $750,000 in state funding to expand its mobile stroke unit. This unit, which was the first of its kind in the United States when it launched in 2014 under the direction of Dr. James Grotta, provides immediate, lifesaving care to patients who have suffered a stroke.
Expanding Care
The funding is part of a $5 million appropriation by the 89th Texas Legislature to improve stroke outcomes statewide through mobile services. Approximately $2.5 million of this funding will be disbursed to three hospital systems, including Memorial Hermann, to support new and expanded mobile stroke units.
According to a 2023 study, 53% of patients treated by a mobile stroke unit made a complete recovery after three months, compared to 43% of patients not treated on such a unit. State Rep. Greg Bonnen, chair of the House Appropriations Committee, noted that mobile stroke units are especially critical for individuals who are not in close proximity to a stroke center, ensuring timely treatment when and where it matters most.
In addition to the $750,000 awarded to Memorial Hermann, $1.25 million was given to Dell Seton Medical Center at The University of Texas at Austin to establish a new mobile stroke unit, and $500,000 went to University Medical Center of El Paso to expand its existing mobile stroke unit.
Original reporting: Community Impact — Houston — read the source article.
