Characteristics of Certified Stroke Center Programs Led by Vascular Neurologists (P3.123)

OBJECTIVE: To determine the characteristics of hospitals under the leadership of vascular neurologists. BACKGROUND: There are relatively few certified vascular neurologists relative to the number of hospitals certified as primary and comprehensive stroke centers. We sought to determine the characteristics of hospitals under the leadership of vascular neurologists compared to those led by non-vascular neurologists. DESIGN/METHODS: This study focused on California and used the 2012 American Hospital Association survey to obtain hospital and regional characteristics. We used The Joint Commission , Healthcare Facilities Accreditation Program and DNV Healthcare websites to determine stroke certification status, and identified the stroke director using individual hospital websites, press releases and by calling the hospital. Board certification of directors was verified via the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and American Board of Medical Specialties status verification systems. RESULTS: In California the AHA survey was completed by 249 of 303 hospitals with 24-hour emergency departments (82%). Of 96 certified stroke centers (6 CSC/96 PSC), the certification of the director was verified in 82. There were 33 vascular neurologists, 38 neurologists, and 11 non-neurologist directors. Hospital programs headed by vascular neurologist were more likely to be residency affiliated (45% vs. 22% p CONCLUSION: Vascular neurologists are more likely to be found leading stroke programs at larger hospitals with established teaching programs. This may be a reflection of the concentration of multiple subspecialties in such institutions. Disclosure: Dr. Ramirez has nothing to disclose. Dr. Krug has nothing to disclose. Dr. Perese has nothing to disclose. Dr. Gasparian has nothing to disclose. Dr. Kazaryan has nothing to disclose. Dr. Sanossian has received personal compensation for activities with Boehringer-Ingelheim Pharmaceutical Inc.