Establishment of the Stroke Center Accreditation by the Korean Stroke Society and the Current Performance Status of Stroke Centers

초록

Background and aims: The establishment of a well-organized care system in emergency transportation and optimal stroke center is essential for the application of scientific advances such as recanalization therapy in clinical practice. The Korean Stroke Society (KSS) began accrediting stroke units in 2008 and primary stroke centers (PSCs) in 2018. To reflect recent advancements in endovascular treatment, thrombectomy-capable stroke centers (TSCs) have been accredited since 2021. Methods: As of November 2022, 71 TSCs and 7 PSCs have been accredited. Prior to hospital inspection, clinical performance data for the most recent year were obtained from hospitals and reviewed by two stroke expert physicians during inspection. Obstacles to establishing a stroke center in certified hospitals were also surveyed. Results: All certified TSCs and PSCs performed an average of 41 intravenous thrombolysis and 43 thrombectomy procedures annually (Table 1). The average door-to-needle time was 50.1 minutes and door-to-puncture time was 130 minutes. The median number of beds in a stroke unit was five and median number of stroke interventionists was three. The biggest barrier to establishing a stroke center in Korea, according to 87% of certified TSCs and PSCs, was low stroke unit reimbursement by the government. Conclusions: The successful accreditation system of PSCs and TSCs by the KSS and recent performance data of certified stroke centers suggest excellence in stroke practice in Korea. Adequate stroke unit charges are needed to promote the optimal stroke care system in Korea. In the near future, the KSS also plans to develop comprehensive stroke center accreditation.