Unfortunately, each state currently has between 0 and 96 certified primary stroke centers, according to a study cited by Reuters, which means only 66 percent of Americans are within 60 minutes of a primary stroke center.
However, medical centers can also be certified as comprehensive stroke centers, which are the most advanced. The study found 811 primary stroke centers, as of 2010, could be upgraded to comprehensive stroke centers.
The study also projected what would happen if each state had 20 comprehensive stroke centers and found 63 percent of Americans on average would be within 60 minutes driving from advanced stroke care, according to the report. Eighty-six percent would be within 60 minutes of a comprehensive stroke center if they could use air transportation.
However, access varies depending on geographic location: Just 15 percent of Wyoming residents would be within 60 minutes of advance stroke care by air or ground, if the state had 20 comprehensive stroke centers, according to the report. In Northeastern states with the same hypothetical number of centers, nearly all residents would be within 60 minutes of a center.
More articles on population health:
What are Americans doing to maintain, improve their health? 10 things to know
Housing the homeless doesn’t improve health-related quality of life
Top 5 childhood, adult experiences Americans say impact health
