There are several proven strategies for prevention of recurrent ischemic stroke, including use of statins, treatment of hypertension, and anticoagulation in patients with atrial fibrillation. Preliminary analyses suggest that only 9-15% of Kaiser Permanente Northern California's ischemic stroke patients receive optimal care for secondary prevention of stroke. The purpose of this study is to determine whether or not a quality improvement (QI) intervention can improve the care received by stroke patients. This project consists of a randomized trial of standardized stroke discharge order forms to improve adherence with best practices in secondary stroke prevention. The primary research question is: Is a secondary prevention intervention, focused on implementation of standardized pre-printed discharge orders for hospitalists, effective at increasing utilization of the following evidence-based treatments 6 months after discharge for ischemic stroke: (1) treatment with statins, (2) control of hypertension, and (3) anticoagulation in patients with atrial fibrillation.~The primary outcome will be the proportion of patients receiving optimal treatment, as defined by these three goals. The impact of the intervention will be measures as a change after-to-before at intervention hospitals compared to non-intervention (control) hospitals, with the institution as the unit of analysis. Secondary analyses will evaluate the impact of the intervention on each of these components and on 6-month and 1-year rates of mortality, readmission for stroke, and costs of care after discharge.
Is a secondary prevention intervention, focused on implementation of standardized pre-printed discharge orders for hospitalists, effective at increasing utilization of the following evidence-based treatments 6 months after discharge for ischemic stroke:~Treatment with statins,~Control of hypertension, and~Anticoagulation in patients with atrial fibrillation.