House Committee Passes Stroke Registry Legislation

COLUMBUS –The Ohio House Health Provider Services Committee this week passed legislation, sponsored by State Representatives Jean Schmidt (R-Loveland) and Thomas Hall (Madison Twp.), which will establish a stroke registry in Ohio. 

“Under this bill, care for stroke patients will be better administered and limit the effects of a stroke,” Schmidt said. “We want to ensure that healthcare providers are equipped with the most accurate data to help stroke patients.”

A stroke registry is a mandatory, statewide collection of data regarding a sampling of stroke patients. The registry provides protected data confirming that steps are being taken to properly & swiftly care for stroke patients.

The issue with Ohio’s current system, the Ohio Coverdell Stroke Program is that the program is funded by a CDC grant and is not always guaranteed. This bill aims to ensure that the Ohio Department of Health has the necessary time to utilize a stroke registry database and create a new one in the future if necessary.

“By passing and enacting House Bill 22, we are laying out the foundation for Ohio to become a leader in stroke care,” Hall added. “This bill will allow those affected across every walk of life in Ohio to be able to be provided the help and support they deserve.”

The measure now heads to the House floor for further consideration.