Eurostarproject, Strokefinder, 9282, Medfield Diagnostics AB

Purpose and goal

The project goal was to develop a stroke diagnostic system to used in ambulances. This was accomplished through a number of robustness enhancing improvements as well as the development of a transportation bag. Furthermore, work was performed to integrate the system into the IT environment of ambulances by defining interfaces, deciding on communication protocols and determining which type of information to present where. Finally, a clinical demo was performed to test the system in a prehospital environment and propose an improved care process for stroke and trauma.

Expected results and effects

As a project result a system has been developed adapted for the prehospital environment. An outcome of this is that Medfield according to plans will submit material for CE certification according to the medical device directive and the requirements for prehospital care (IEC 60601-1-12). The system has gone through extensive evaluation at a prominent English ambulance organisation, SWAST, both in term of practical usage and as part of the care process. This will be of invaluable help in Medfield´s continued effort to introduce the product on the market and get clinical acceptance.

Planned approach and implementation

The project was organized around Medfield as a product developer and the English ambulance organisation SWAST as end user. The development took place in two iterations with user feedback in-between. The concept was well conceived and worked exceptionally well. SWAST is a very knowledgable end user at the forefront of prehospital care processes and could thus give feedback at a level few others could have. The cooperation was tight, worked excellently and will likely continue after project finalization. Medfield additionally used a few subcontractors for the development.