Abstract Body: Background: Stroke education plays a critical role in improving the public’s awareness of stroke and identifying stroke symptoms, ultimately reducing the morbidity and mortality associated with stroke. While health fairs are a common venue for such education, expanding efforts beyond these events may reach a broader audience. This abstract explores the advantages of providing stroke education in diverse settings.
Methods: A Systems of Care Model was utilized for community stroke education which involved coordinating outreach efforts by key stakeholders within a large healthcare system. This approach was developed to ensure comprehensive and effective stroke education was presented to community members in everyday environments. BEFAST was discussed to provide education on the signs and symptoms of stroke, activation of 911, along with modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors. By integrating stroke education into everyday environments, a culture of continuous learning where stroke awareness becomes part of routine conversations, rather than a once -a-year event. This approach allows tailored messages that are specific to the needs of the communities, addressing unique risk factors and cultural considerations that otherwise would not be addressed in the traditional delivery of community stroke outreach.
Results: Over 5,000 individuals were educated throughout the year ranging from children to senior citizens. Individualized education was provided to meet the unique needs of each audience and environment across a wide range of diverse settings, which included the service industry, sales, sporting events, religious congregations, magazine advertisements, and other media. Rapport was established during initial individual interviews in these settings resulting in follow-up visits providing personalized stroke education. Feedback from the community suggested the education was effectively delivered for stroke symptom and risk factor recognition. Personal accounts were shared by eight (8) community members who then sought emergency care for stroke symptoms either for themselves, co-workers or family members.

Conclusions: Expanding stroke education beyond health fairs is a strategic approach to engage a larger proportion of our community. This proactive approach has the potential to improve early detection and treatment outcomes, ultimately reducing the long-term impact of stroke on individuals and communities.