AQuAS rolls out AI solutions to support stroke diagnosis, monitoring and prevention

The Agency for Health Quality and Assessment of Catalonia (AQuAS) has begun deploying new AI driven solutions designed to support diagnosis and patient selection in the acute phase of stroke.

This initiative is part of the Health/AI Programme created by the Department of Health in Catalonia, marking another step forward in integrating artificial intelligence into the Catalan Health System.

AQuAS is overseeing the development and implementation of these services, including technological integration, professional training and evidence generation. The agency is leading this strategic project to ensure that the solutions are smoothly embedded into clinical workflows across the system.

The aim is to support healthcare professionals within Catalonia’s Stroke Code Reference Network by assisting with image interpretation, helping streamline diagnosis and patient selection. These tools will also enable primary and community care professionals to better focus on secondary prevention strategies and the management of vascular risk factors, while providing valuable data to inform decision making across the health system.

The AI solutions use advanced algorithms to analyse computed tomography scans, a diagnostic technique that produces detailed images of the body using X rays. In this case, the technology examines brain scans to identify potential stroke cases, supporting clinicians and improving decision making.

In addition, the solutions include communication systems that enhance collaboration among members of the Stroke Code Reference Network and facilitate the integration of clinical data.

The project is currently in its early stages, with deployment expected to begin in May 2026.

AQuAS is leading the project and is responsible for contracting, evaluation, coordination and validation of the solutions. Siemens Healthineers, in partnership with Methinks, will handle operational testing, implementation and rollout across healthcare centres. Oversight will be provided by a committee made up of representatives from AQuAS, the Catalan Health Service, the TIC Salut i Social Foundation, the Department of Health’s master plan for cardiovascular diseases, and the Institute of Diagnostic Imaging. The goal is to ensure the solutions contribute to a more efficient, higher quality model of care.

The project is funded by the European Union’s NextGenerationEU programme under the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan.

Source: AQUAS