Creating Virtual Stroke Networks: Current and Future Role of Artificial Intelligence, Mobile Imaging Applications, and Telehealth in Triage and Treatment of Acute Ischemic Stroke: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association

Rapid evaluation, triage, and transport of patients with stroke for thrombolytics, thrombectomy, and other acute treatments have become a vital part of cerebrovascular care. As such, there is a need for technology to facilitate interinstitutional coordination of care. This scientific statement describes how technology expands stroke systems of care. Through remote care, virtual access to health care information, and improved interconnectedness across distant facilities, a virtual stroke network acts to bring professionals, specialty expertise, and the gold standard of acute stroke care to the patient regardless of location. We summarize current virtual stroke care components, describe potential integrations, and consider regulatory and ethical concerns. From this analysis, we propose a framework to guide future research and policy.