During the 83rd, 84th, and 85th Regular Texas Legislative Sessions (Riders 97, 67, and 13), funds were appropriated to advance heart attack and stroke reduction efforts throughout Texas. These funds were allocated to the Heart Attack and Stroke Data Collection Initiative. The Initiative focuses on pre-hospitalization and hospitalization portions of the heart attack and stroke systems of care.

To guide implementation of the Initiative, DSHS formed a Collaborative comprised of representatives from governor-appointed committees, state-mandated regional advisory councils, nonprofit organizations, and other pre-hospital and hospital stakeholders. 

Data Collection Process

Our data collection efforts focus on pre-hospital and hospital heart attack and stroke data elements, with a particular focus on ST-elevated myocardial infarction (STEMI). The collection of comprehensive data will enable DSHS to conduct gap analyses and identify areas for improvement. Thus, leading to improved systems of care and outcomes for patients.

Pre-Hospital Data Collection

Pre-hospital data is accessed through the EMS & Trauma Registries. The registry is a statewide passive surveillance system that collects reportable event data from EMS providers, hospitals, Justices of the Peace, Medical Examiners, and rehabilitation facilities.

Hospital Data Collection

Hospital data is not collected through any statewide surveillance system. DSHS accesses de-identified hospital data through national registries. Hospitals must authorize the sharing of their data before DSHS can access; hospitals do not submit their data directly to DSHS.

Gap analysis reports can be found below and are distributed to stakeholders across the state.

For more information on how to take part, please visit the Hospital Participation page.

Collaborative Members 

• American Heart Association
• Governor’s EMS and Trauma Advisory Council
• Lone Star Stroke Consortium
• Regional Advisory Councils
• Texas Council on Cardiovascular Disease and Stroke
• Texas Department of State Health Services
• Texas Hospital Association
• Texas Organization of Rural and Community Hospitals