Stroke and cardiovascular disease: significant progress but still much to do

In March 2012, the Department of Health created the first National Clinical Director post dedicated to stroke care. Whilst the post is an interim one, pending final decisions about the nature of clinical input to the NHS Commissioning Board from 1st April 2013, its creation emphasises the commitment of the government to continue the implementation of the National Stroke Strategy, in the context of a major emphasis on joining up cardiovascular care.