First Author: TYNETTA BROWN
ALL AUTHORS: TYNETTA BROWN, ELIZABETH (LIBBY) PUCKETT

Objective:
To illustrate how the formulation of a Network infrastructure can assist with addressing the regional health problem of stroke in the "buckle" of the Stroke Belt.

Methods Used:
A variety of process objectives were utilized from the formulation of a Tri-State Stroke Summit Steering Committee and subsequent Work Group for establishing goals and objectives to infrastructure building for the administration of the Network.

Results:
Through the Tri-State Stroke Network (TSSN), there is now a coordinating body to assist CDC-funded Basic Implementation States with utilizing their resources to address stroke and secondary prevention for improved prevention and control, and acute stroke care. Partnerships emphasize the importance of collaboration to enhance and support work in stroke and help to avoid duplication of effort.

Conclusions:
A stronger infrastructure has been created within the "buckle" of the Stroke Belt to address the geographic disparity in stroke. No one source can provide what is needed to adequately address the third leading cause of death. A shared problem, limited resources and an agreement to collaborate, provide stronger opportunities to address a critical health problem on a larger scale. Continuing to add partners to assist in achieving shared goals helps contend with sustainability issues. Communication and the shared commitment from all partners is key to success and has laid a foundation of trust and experience within the TSSN to continue to bring attention to the excess burden of stroke.