IU Health Telestroke and Stroke Care Network

Telestroke was developed due to a shortage of Neurologists in Indiana and the United States. About 800,000 strokes occur annually in the United States, causing about 163,000 deaths. IU Health set a goal for improving emergent and inpatient care of acute stroke patients in rural and underserved areas. IU Health Telestroke Network technology, protocols, and training plans were developed and shared with local hospitals (Spoke Sites).

How it Works

• Hub sites (Primary Stroke Centers) are the center of the wheel with the Spoke sites (Local hospitals) serving as the connection between the “rim” (patients) and the Hub.


• Indiana University Health Neurologists have the expertise to rapidly access and direct treatment for all stroke patients across the state through audio and visual equipment.


• Neurologists at the Hub sites consult with the Spoke site to enabled facilities across Indiana to evaluate and care for stroke patients.


• IU Health Methodist serves as a gateway for all Hub and Spoke hospitals. This allows rapid access to IU Health Methodist hospital for advanced interventions and diagnostics needed for complex stroke patients.