OPTIMISE stands for Optimising Pathways of Psychological Care after Transient Ischaemic Attack and MInor StrokE and is led by Dr Eirini Kontou, Assistant Professor and Clinical Psychologist. It is an acronym for a research project. This project aims to improve support for people with TIA and minor stroke who have emotional and ‘cognitive’ (thinking difficulties).

Read more on the NIHR website

Find OPTIMISE on Twitter: @OPTIMISE_study

It aims to summarise what psychological support is available in the NHS services to people who experience TIA / minor stroke. We will ask healthcare professionals and individuals who experienced TIA / minor stroke about their experiences and opinions via online survey and during interviews or focus groups. Then, we will use that information to provide a list of recommendations for TIA / minor stroke services.

Optimise study

• Stage 1: A nationwide survey in the UK to investiagate the current pathways of care for evaluating the mood and cognition of people diagnosed with TIA and minor stroke.
• Stage 2: A series of interviews and group discussions with service users, families, clinicians and service providers.
• Stage 3: A co-design group of expertise, professionals and study team members, who will work together to develop a new psychological care pathway for people diagnosed with TIA and minor stroke.