ABSTRACT NUMBER: ESOC2026LB212 OPTIMISING PATHWAYS OF PSYCHOLOGICAL CARE AFTER TRANSIENT ISCHAEMIC ATTACK AND MINOR STROKE (OPTIMISE STUDY) – RESULTS FROM A UK-BASED ONLINE SURVEY OF HEALTH PROFESSIONALS

Abstract Background and aims Globally, millions of people experience mild strokes and Transient Ischaemic Attacks (TIAs) each year. TIA and minor stroke are associated with persistent psychological and cognitive impairments that remain frequently under-recognised. This study aimed to describe clinical pathways of care for the recognition and management of mood and cognition following TIA and minor stroke. Methods An online survey was designed as part of an explanatory sequential mixed-methods study. UK-based healthcare professionals supporting people post-TIA/minor stroke were eligible to participate. Anonymised quantitative and free-text data were collected and analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Results Responses from 94 healthcare professionals from various clinical services and diverse professional backgrounds were analysed. Results showed variation in routine screening and management of mood and cognition. Participants described inconsistent access to psychological support, gaps in referral pathways, variability in screening processes, limited training, time pressures, and insufficient signposting. Many reported providing psychological care despite this falling outside their defined professional roles. Conclusions Findings indicated considerable variability in routine screening and management practices for mood and cognition across professions. While respondents acknowledged the importance of screening and treating of mood and cognition after milder strokes, they highlighted a mismatch between level of clinical need and service provision. Findings emphasised the need for clearer guidelines, appropriate care pathways, and standardised approaches in routine screening. This survey informed a qualitative study exploring unmet needs after TIA/minor stroke and pathways of psychological care. This work lays the foundation for future interventions to address the neuropsychological sequelae in less severe strokes. Conflict of interest