Stroke Education in Student-Run Free Clinics: Identifying and Closing Knowledge Gaps in Underserved Populations

BackgroundStroke is a leading cause of death and disability, particularly in underserved populations with limited healthcare access, where poor health literacy and low stroke awareness contribute to delayed symptom recognition and worse outcomes. Student-run free clinics serve high-risk patients with hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia, which are key stroke risk factors, yet stroke awareness remains inadequate. This study aims to identify stroke knowledge gaps and develop a culturally relevant educational intervention. MethodsThe three-phase study includes baseline surveys, educational material development, and post-education evaluation. ResultsAfter participation in stroke education, significant improvements in stroke sign recognition were observed, with Spanish speakers showing gains in knowledge about balance and vision loss, and English speakers in balance, vision loss, and face drooping (p <0.01). Emergency response knowledge improved less consistently; calling 911 significantly increased among English speakers (p <0.01) but decreased significantly (p <0.01) among Spanish speakers. The intervention effectively closed specific risk factor gaps, such as alcohol recognition among Spanish speakers (p <0.01). ConclusionBy addressing knowledge gaps and empowering patients to act quickly, this intervention may reduce stroke-related morbidity and mortality in high-risk populations. The model could also serve as a framework for other student-run clinics to address health literacy gaps in underserved communities.