Bi-Partisan Legislation to Create Stroke Registry Passes House

COLUMBUS – The Ohio House of Representatives yesterday passed House Bill 431, announced State Representative Jean Schmidt (R-Loveland). The measure is bi-partisan legislation to codify a stroke registry database in Ohio, sponsored by Schmidt and State Representative Beth Liston (D-Dublin).

“Given the devastating effects of stroke, it is critical that Ohio have in place a stroke registry at all times,” said Schmidt. “By doing so, care for patients can be better administered and thus, limit the effects.” 

Currently, Ohio utilizes the CDC funded Coverdell Stroke Program, a program that is not always guaranteed. 

“Although funding may be in place currently, there is no way to know if the grant will continue to exist or if Ohio will be able to attain the grant in the future,” said Schmidt. 

Under the bill, the Ohio Department of Health would have enough time to utilize a stroke registry database and create a new one, if necessary. The measure does not require a new or second registry to be created, but leaves the option available in order to ensure a registry is being used in the state and by all future stroke care facilities. 

H.B. 431 is part of a long line of stroke legislation that’s been passed in recent General Assemblies. In the 132nd G.A., the House championed House Bill 464 to establish hospital stroke care designations. 

“This bill is a next step, requiring hospitals with such designations to participate in a stroke registry coordinated by the Ohio Department of Health, collecting quality and outcomes data with regards to stroke treatment based on national practice guidelines,” said Liston. 

The measure now heads to the Senate for further consideration.