North Carolina Stroke Analysis: Using GIS for Distance to Care

North Carolina Division of Public Health, State Center for Health Statistics

A North Carolina legislative proposal to establish a statewide system of care for strokes and to certify stroke centers prompted a study of access to treatment. One map shows a study of stroke deaths from 2003 to 2005 and the distance traveled to receive care from a Joint Commission Certified Primary Stroke Center. The other map updates the study with data from 2006 to 2007, showing an increase in hospitals becoming Certified Primary Stroke Centers, which resulted in improved access to care.

By using GIS, states and other organizations seeking to establish certification for stroke centers can make sound decisions regarding the criteria for certification along with locating where they are most needed.

Courtesy of Dianne Enright, North Carolina Division of Public Health, State Center for Health Statistics.

Map Book Page [PDF]