Encompass Health leadership share how to spot signs of stroke as well as what you can do to prevent it.
WTOC Stroke Prevention Interview
May 7, 2025 - In honor of National Stroke Awareness month in May, Encompass Health CEO Wayne Boutwell and Medical Director Vincent Somaio spoke with WTOC-11 on how to identify the signs and symptoms of a stroke. Dr. Somaio gave the acronym of FAST:
- Face drooping
- Arm weakness
- Speech slurring or difficulties
- Time to call 911
He also offered ways to prevent a stroke, including managing blood pressure and cholesterol and maintaining a healthy diet. Following a stroke, many survivors have challenges with walking, talking and use of one side of the body, all of which may require different therapies or types of rehabilitation. Encompass Health Bluffton serves patients who have suffered a stroke by tailoring their rehabilitation needs to their specific goals. Encompass Health Bluffton also holds The Joint Commission’s Disease-Specific Care Certification for Stroke Rehabilitation.
The hospital offers a monthly stroke support group on the second Wednesday of every month at 3 p.m. The group meeting is open to stroke survivors or those caring for stroke survivors.
The full WTOC interview can be found here.