The Scottish Government has announced a targeted investment to prevent hundreds of secondary strokes each year, aiming to reduce long-term disability and pressure on the healthcare system. The initiative focuses on improving post-stroke care and early intervention strategies for patients at high risk of recurrence.
Secondary strokes—those occurring after an initial event—account for a significant proportion of stroke-related hospital admissions and long-term complications. By enhancing access to preventive treatments, such as anticoagulants and blood pressure management, Scotland hopes to significantly lower repeat stroke rates.
The investment will support integrated care pathways across NHS Scotland, ensuring timely follow-up, medication adherence, and lifestyle support for stroke survivors. Health officials emphasized that preventing secondary strokes not only saves lives but also reduces the economic burden on hospitals and social care services.
Stroke remains one of Scotland’s leading causes of death and disability. This new funding aligns with national efforts to improve neurological care and promote equitable access to rehabilitation and recovery resources.
The programme is expected to roll out in phases, with measurable targets set for reduction in recurrence rates and improved patient outcomes.
