NABH Stroke Standards Accreditation: A Guide For Stroke Care Centres

The NABH has introduced the Stroke Standards Accreditation Programme to improve stroke care quality in India. This program aligns with the standards set by the World Stroke Organization (WSO) and aims to standardize stroke care across healthcare facilities. 

This guide provides an overview of the programme, its significance, and how stroke care centres can achieve accreditation.

Understanding Stroke

Stroke is a significant non-communicable disease, leading to high mortality and disability rates worldwide. It accounts for 3.5% of disability-adjusted life years (DALY) in India, with a majority of cases occurring in low- and middle-income countries.

Importance Of Stroke Care Standards

The adoption of standardized stroke care practices is essential for improving patient outcomes. By implementing these standards, healthcare providers can ensure timely and effective management of stroke, reducing the gap in access to critical treatments like intravenous thrombolysis and mechanical thrombectomy.

NABH And WSO Collaboration

In November 2022, NABH signed a memorandum of understanding with WSO to launch the stroke centre certification program in India. This collaboration integrates WSO standards with the NABH Quality Connect Grants accreditation processes, enhancing the quality and monitoring of stroke care.

Goals Of the Accreditation Programme

The primary goals are to:

• Improve access to quality stroke care.
• Ensure adherence to established guidelines and protocols.
• Provide consistent and effective treatment.
• Enhance patient outcomes and reduce care variations.

Steps For Implementation Of Stroke Standards

The implementation process involves several steps to help stroke care centres meet accreditation requirements:

1. Certification Process

The NABH Stroke Standards Accreditation Programme is designed to be user-friendly. Stroke care centres can apply for accreditation by conducting a self-assessment using the provided toolkit. The program offers a structured pathway for healthcare facilities to progressively improve their quality systems.

2. Self-Assessment Toolkit

NABH provides a comprehensive Self-Assessment Toolkit (SAT) to help stroke care centres evaluate their compliance with the standards. This toolkit simplifies the application process and assists centres in identifying areas for improvement.

3. Online Application Portal

An online application portal is available on the NABH website, facilitating a smooth application process for stroke care centres seeking accreditation.

Benefits Of Stroke Standards Accreditation

Accreditation brings numerous benefits to stroke care centres, enhancing the quality and efficiency of patient care:

1. Quality And Efficiency

Accreditation ensures that stroke care centres deliver high-quality, organized care promptly. This includes rapid diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and effective rehabilitation services.

2. Improved Patient Outcomes

By adhering to the latest scientific evidence and standardized protocols, accredited centres can achieve better patient outcomes and reduce disparities in stroke care.

3. Enhanced Reputation

Accreditation by NABH signifies a commitment to excellence, enhancing the reputation of stroke care centres and building trust among patients and the community.

Conclusion

The NABH Stroke Standards Accreditation Programme is a significant advancement in improving stroke care quality in India. By implementing these standards, centres can ensure timely and effective treatment, improving patient outcomes. The collaboration with the World Stroke Organization integrates global best practices into local healthcare. 

Accreditation enhances care quality, builds trust, and signifies a commitment to excellence. Embracing these standards is essential for elevating healthcare services and ensuring better stroke care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Download the office PDF regarding NABH Stroke Standards from here.