A new wave of compact heart monitors could help prevent hundreds of strokes in Scotland over the next five years.
The Scottish Government has announced £1.9 million in funding to roll out the devices to around 8,000 stroke patients each year.
The Ambulatory ECG patch monitors are small, wireless chest sensors worn for up to 14 days.
They detect irregular heart rhythms, especially atrial fibrillation a major cause of stroke and are expected to be four times more effective than current technology.
The devices will replace older, bulkier models, allowing for faster diagnosis and earlier treatment.
Health officials say this could help avoid 689 secondary strokes and save more than 300 lives across Scotland by 2030.
“This investment in innovative technology will make a real difference to the lives of thousands of stroke patients,” said Health Secretary Neil Gray.
“By accelerating diagnosis and treatment, we can help prevent recurrent strokes and improve health outcomes.”
The patch monitors are water-resistant, easy to apply, and can even be sent to patients at home, reducing travel and hospital appointments.
By streamlining diagnosis, they could also free up the equivalent of nearly 16 full-time cardiac physiologists.
Cost savings for the NHS could reach £14.6 million over five years, according to a research study that supported the move.
The rollout is being led through the Accelerated National Innovation Adoption (ANIA) programme, which fast-tracks life-changing medical technologies across Scotland.
Katie Cuthbertson, National Director for the Centre for Sustainable Delivery, said the rollout was “innovation with impact, delivered at pace and scale.”
“By detecting atrial fibrillation earlier and more accurately, we are not only preventing recurrent strokes but also freeing up vital clinical capacity.”
Professor Jann Gardner, Chief Executive of NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, said the success of the programme there has helped shape national rollout.
“This is a powerful example of how innovation can enhance diagnosis, reduce waiting times, and lead to better outcomes for patients,” she said.
Dr Faheem Ahmad, Consultant Cardiologist and clinical lead for the project, has seen the difference first-hand.
“The ECG patch has been a game-changer for both patients and clinicians,” he said.
“They’re more accurate, more comfortable, and help us act sooner to prevent serious complications.”
The monitors will be made available to stroke patients across all NHS boards in Scotland from this year.
