Healthcare Professional Perspectives of a Health Communication Passport for Stroke: An International UK and Ireland Survey

Abstract Background The Irish National Stroke Strategy 2022-2027 (HSE, 2022) has recommended the introduction of a patient held resource such as a ‘Stroke Passport’ to allow patients to keep clear and current records of health treatment and support throughout their rehabilitation. Given that a Stroke Passport can be categorised as a complex intervention, characterised by multiple interacting components and the need to modify established practices, it is crucial to explore current practices related to information provision across the stroke care continuum. Methods An online survey explored the opinions of healthcare professionals based in Ireland and the UK who worked in stroke care. Numerical data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Opinions and comments made by participants were analysed using Thematic Content Analysis based on the Theoretical Domains Framework. Results A total of 111 (64% Ireland; 36% United Kingdom (UK)) healthcare professionals completed the survey. The survey respondents identified the most common methods that stroke information was provided to patients across settings were verbal discussions, booklets, leaflets, and telephone calls. There was consensus that information should be provided at multiple care pathway timepoints. UK respondents indicated a significantly greater perceived satisfaction by patients and family/caregiver with current information provision compared to their Irish counterparts (p<.001). Most participants stated that a Stroke Passport should ideally be provided in both digital and paper formats. Conclusion This survey provides important insights into current information provision practices of healthcare professionals working in the area of stroke. There was agreement about the importance of the provision of a standardised information resource, such as a Stroke Passport, to enhance stroke patient care. This ultimately has the potential to equip stroke patients in the active management of their healthcare.