Stroke National Clinical Network

The National Stroke Network was refreshed in 2023 in line with the establishment of National Clinical Networks programme, including the introduction of a co-leadership model. The Network’s membership was confirmed following an expression of interest process and this new NSN is now responsible for developing a National Stroke Model of Care and Workplan detailing key initiatives that will advance the NSN vision and ultimately help improve the outcomes of people who are at risk or who have experienced stroke.   

The National Stroke Network (NSN) was previously formed in 2011 as a joint initiative between the Ministry of Health and the Stroke Foundation New Zealand. This was to facilitate implementation of the 2010 New Zealand Clinical Guidelines for Stroke Management. 

Regional stroke clinical networks were established as an important mechanism for achieving implementation.

The NSN has also identified a set of core principles that represent the network and helps define our culture of the Stroke Network. These principles will help guide us through the development of the work required to achieve our vision.

• Equity – We are committed to recognising the needs of different communities. We will adapt stroke services and care approaches to best meet those needs, so that everyone in Aotearoa has the opportunity to prevent first or subsequent strokes and recover from stroke with the best possible outcomes.
• Person and Whānau-centred care – People experiencing stroke and their whānau are at the centre of what we do. What is important to them will drive and shape the care and support that they receive now and into the future.  
• Clinical Excellence – Our services will be informed by recognised New Zealand and international best practice. It will incorporate the knowledge and experiences of those living with stroke within our communities. Ensuring we provide clinical excellence with skill and compassion.
• Te Tiriti led – The services we provide and the way that we work will be guided by the principles and articles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
• Nationally and regionally organised – Services will be consistent and coordinated throughout the motu and be delivered by competent regional and national structures. 

• Develop the models of care and service standards in stroke prevention and care in Aotearoa. With the central goal of eliminating inequity and unwarranted variation in stroke.
• Collaborate with regional stroke networks and key stakeholders to agree to a consistent implementation of care across Aotearoa.
• Identify and support key programmes of work that require national planning and implementation.
• Support and lead national workforce development initiatives in stroke care.
• Develop and maintain processes to monitor progress in system change, delivery and outcome of stroke care.
• Maintain networks across the sector to support productive relationships with consumers, whanau and health professionals working with people experiencing stroke.

The Stroke Network will look to shape the delivery of better care through the patient journey and the efficient utilization of resources through a developed programme of work.  

The Stroke Network has specific areas related to the patient pathway and journey. The following areas of focus (workstreams) are seen are priority based on the impact and importance to improving services for stroke.  

• Prevention 
• Hyperacute Care 
• Acute Care 
• Rehabilitation & Recovery