The American Heart Association has secured a $9.75 million investment from The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust to enhance stroke care across Minnesota and South Dakota through its Mission: Lifeline Stroke program. This funding allocates $4.7 million to Minnesota and $5.05 million to South Dakota to strengthen the full spectrum of stroke care, from emergency response through rehabilitation. Stroke remains a leading cause of death and disability nationally, with more than 90% of patients experiencing some form of disability and over 11% suffering a second stroke within a year. The risk is particularly acute for rural residents who often face significant barriers to accessing timely, high-quality healthcare.
The Mission: Lifeline Stroke initiative creates an integrated system of care by coordinating hospitals, emergency medical services, rehabilitation facilities, and government agencies to implement evidence-based treatment guidelines. In South Dakota, where stroke caused 393 deaths in 2022, the program will focus on implementing stroke care quality standards in post-acute facilities to maximize recovery, reduce secondary effects, and extend guideline-directed care throughout a patient's journey. Dr. Jim Walery, a consultant to the South Dakota Department of Health EMS Division, emphasized this initiative will directly impact all South Dakotans through better coordinated care.
Minnesota's initiative will expand the existing statewide stroke system by addressing care gaps for rural residents and those with limited English proficiency. The program will develop culturally and linguistically appropriate materials to improve stroke literacy among all residents. Heather Peterson, AHA vice president of community impact for the Twin Cities, stated improving stroke literacy is crucial for ensuring optimal outcomes for everyone. The Helmsley Charitable Trust has been a major supporter of the American Heart Association, committing over $90.9 million since 2010. Trustee Walter Panzirer highlighted the importance of a comprehensive approach, especially for rural populations facing longer transit times and limited specialist access.
This investment aims to significantly improve stroke patient outcomes by focusing on the entire care continuum—from prevention and early recognition to acute treatment and rehabilitation. The emphasis on rural and underserved populations addresses longstanding healthcare disparities, ensuring all residents have access to high-quality stroke care regardless of location or background. As the program develops, it may serve as a model for other states seeking to enhance their stroke care systems, potentially leading to nationwide improvements in stroke outcomes and reduced impact of this devastating condition. More information about the American Heart Association's stroke initiatives is available at https://www.heart.org/en/professional/mission-lifeline/mission-lifeline-stroke.
