Belgian Stroke Care Faces Scrutiny as Survival Rates Vary Widely
Brussels – A recent audit has revealed significant disparities in stroke care across Belgium, with survival rates differing dramatically between hospitals. According to findings released on March 5, 2026, less than 12 percent of the country’s 96 hospitals are meeting established guidelines for timely stroke treatment.
The audit, conducted by the National Institute for Health and Disability Insurance (RIZIV) and the Federal Public Service Health, found that only a handful of Belgian hospitals can administer clot-busting drugs to stroke patients within the recommended 30-minute window. Every minute counts when a patient suffers a stroke, as approximately 2 million brain cells die per minute of oxygen deprivation. This underscores the critical need for rapid intervention in stroke cases.
“We need a national stroke plan that prioritizes a uniform approach,” stated Professor Robin Lemmens of the University Hospital Leuven (UZ Leuven). The call for a standardized national plan comes as data shows that only one hospital in Belgium consistently meets the guideline of operating on patients with severe strokes within one hour.
The variations in survival rates are particularly stark. On average, approximately 10 percent of patients die after being admitted to a Belgian hospital for stroke care. However, this figure ranges from 3 percent to 30 percent depending on the hospital, meaning a patient in one facility has ten times the chance of survival compared to another. Het Belang van Limburg reports.
Approximately 25,000 people in Belgium experience a stroke each year. Recognizing the symptoms of a stroke – such as facial drooping, arm weakness and speech difficulties – and acting quickly is crucial. The National Health Guidelines recommend using the FAST test (Face, Arm, Speech, Time) to quickly assess potential stroke symptoms. NHG-Richtlijnen provides detailed guidance on identifying and responding to stroke symptoms.
The findings highlight the urgent need for improvements in stroke care delivery across Belgium, potentially impacting healthcare investment and resource allocation in the sector. Further analysis is expected to focus on identifying best practices and addressing systemic challenges to ensure equitable access to timely and effective stroke treatment for all patients.
Recent reports also indicate that Belgian hospitals are generally slow to act in stroke cases. VRT NWS details the audit findings and the call for a national plan.
