<p>Polycom, Inc, leader in open standards-based unified communications (UC&C) has announced the immense success of the NHS Cumbria & Lancashire Cardiac and Stroke Network (CSNLC) in its first year-and-a-half of providing 247 access to thrombolysis treatment from remote specialists.</p><p>The telestroke network serves eight hospitals that in turn serve 2.2 million people spread over 3,500m. For this extensive population and extended rural area, 16 consultants are able to deliver 24/7 thrombolysis treatment to patients with acute ischaemic stroke. The reason such a small number of consultants can serve such a large rural population is telemedicine, powered by Polycom RealPresence video solutions. Working with Polycom partner MultiSense Communications, each hospital site is equipped with a telestroke solution that includes Polycom Practitioner Carts and their mobile HD video in the hospitals, and Polycom CMA Desktop video collaboration software installed on the clinician's home PC.</p><p>Over 520 patients in Cumbria and Lancashire have benefited from the telestroke service since its launch in July 2011, with over 220 of those patients receiving thrombolysis. Patients and their family members appreciate the benefits of the new technology. One called the Polycom Practitioner Cart a "fabulous piece of equipment." "Three cheers for technology," said another; "the doctor on the screen was a very professional man and no doubt saved us vital minutes with his consultation."</p><p>A third patient described her life-saving treatment experience in more detail: "The doctor appeared on the screen, introduced himself and talked about my CT results with the doctor who was in the room with me. He talked to me from the screen, asking me to try different movements, then the doctors talked about the amount I'd need and how it should be given to me. I feel incredibly lucky - the treatment I had doesn't work for everyone, and it has to be given within a really short time after the stroke. I would still be in hospital now if I hadn't had it."</p><p><a href="http://www.telepresenceoptions.com/2013/05/on-demand_telemedicine_saves_l/">Keep reading...</a></p>