Resource costs, health outcomes and cost-effectiveness in stroke care: Evidence from the Oxford Vascular Study

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Cerebrovascular disorders, such as strokes, have high mortality, disability and healthcare costs. However, there is a lack of information on their costs and outcomes, information that is vital in order for the NHS to make accurate decisions. In my doctorate the costs and outcomes of stroke and transient ischaemic attacks (TIA), which are similar to very minor strokes, were estimated using data from a large study undertaken in Oxfordshire. My work also estimated the factors affecting patients‘ quality of life, disability, and costs to the NHS. Results showed that the prevention of further strokes decreased NHS costs and improved patients‘ quality of life. However, with a high risk of suffering another stroke shortly after TIA or minor stroke, prevention of further events needs to be timely in order to be effective. This is not the case, however, as patients tend to wait more than 14 days to be assessed and treated. The final part of my work evaluated the costs and outcomes of faster clinical assessment and treatment for such patients. This award would allow me to disseminate the results of my doctorate thesis.