A HOSPITAL team looking after patients suffering heart attacks and strokes has been shortlisted for a prestigious care award. The heart attack and stroke team at the Royal Free Hospital has been recognised for their innovative work in treating heart att

A HOSPITAL team looking after patients suffering heart attacks and strokes has been shortlisted for a prestigious care award.

The heart attack and stroke team at the Royal Free Hospital has been recognised for their innovative work in treating heart attack and stroke patients alongside each other by making the shortlist for the BMJ Awards Secondary Care Team of the Year.

The hospital's Heart Attack and Stroke Centre was the first integrated heart attack and stroke unit in the country, with heart attack patients receiving faster treatment than at most other hospitals by bypassing A&E and going straight to the centre, while the number of beds in the stroke unit has been increased.

Roby Rakhit, consultant cardiologist, said: "Being shortlisted for this prestigious award recognises all members of the multidisciplinary team."

Winners of the BMJ Awards, which were set up to recognise pioneering individuals and organisations who make a significant impact on healthcare, will be announced on March 10.