An island-wide survey has been launched to help enhance stroke rehabilitation services in Bermuda.

Evolution Healing Centre released the questionnaire — which aims to gather vital insights from people who have experienced a stroke — on September 8. It will run until October 31.

The survey was organised in collaboration with the Bermuda Hospitals Board and other community partners.

All stroke survivors are invited to share their experiences and perspectives on rehabilitation services available in the community.

The centre ran a survey in 2023 that revealed a “pressing need to improve stroke rehabilitation services in Bermuda”.

Speaking about that survey, Kim Watkins, a senior rehabilitation physiotherapist for Evolution Healing Centre, said: “Participants expressed the need for an improved transition from acute to community services, as well as greater support after discharge.

“They also faced barriers such as geographical location and transportation, time constraints attached to service access and financial limitations.

“The survey was a critical first step in understanding the post-stroke needs of the community.”

Feedback collected from the new survey will serve as a resource in understanding the needs of stroke patients and improving the quality of care they receive in Bermuda.

The survey aims to reach 250 responses and it is hoped that each submission will contribute to building a comprehensive picture of stroke rehabilitation on the island.

Dr Watkins said that recent studies had shown a concerning increase in strokes globally.

In Bermuda, data suggested that there are about five new cases each week — a number that continues to grow.

Dr Watkins added: “Although there are high incidences of stroke globally, this does not always equate to similar specialised service provision.

“Stroke remains a significant health concern in Bermuda, as evidenced by the Ministry of Health in 2019 identifying it as the second leading cause of death and the third leading cause of disability.

“This disparity highlights the urgent need for improved service provision and support for stroke survivors in our community.

“By participating in this survey, stroke survivors have an opportunity to voice their experiences, highlight challenges and suggest improvements that could benefit future patients.

“This initiative is not just a chance to reflect on personal experiences, it also aligns with broader efforts to enhance healthcare services for everyone in Bermuda.

“Community involvement is crucial and organisers encourage all eligible participants to take part.

“Together, we can build a stronger support system and aim to improve rehabilitation for stroke survivors in Bermuda.”

Anyone who has experienced a stroke can access the survey at surveymonkey.com/r/RJX3ZHZ.

It should take approximately 15 to 20 minutes to complete.

The centre is also planning a number of events to coincide with World Stroke Day on October 29.