When a stroke happens, getting to the right treatment quickly can make a difference. That is why the University Medical Center of El Paso brings specialized stroke care directly to patients through its Mobile Stroke Unit, the first of its kind in west Texas.
The unit is equipped with a specialized CT scanner and other technologies that enable the team to gather critical information at the scene. That information can then be shared with stroke specialists at UMC, helping guide treatment decisions during the emergency.
Care Starts at the Scene
A stroke can be caused by a blocked blood vessel or bleeding in the brain. Because the treatments are different, knowing what is happening as quickly as possible is critical.
Inside UMC’s Mobile Stroke Unit, the medical team can perform a CT scan of the patient’s brain while they are still being transported. The images can be sent to specialists who help determine the type of stroke and the next steps in care.
This means the patient does not have to wait until they arrive at the emergency department for that part of the evaluation to begin.
Turning Information Into Action
The goal is not simply to get a scan faster. It is to give the medical team more information sooner. For some patients experiencing an ischemic stroke, medication may be used to help restore blood flow by breaking up a clot. Other patients may require a different treatment if bleeding is present.
Having imaging and other clinical information available during transport can help the team prepare for the patient’s arrival and avoid unnecessary delays once they reach the hospital.
An Upgrade for El Paso
UMC’s Mobile Stroke Unit has already been part of the region’s stroke response. In 2026, UMC received $500,000 in state funding to strengthen the program and continue supporting this specialized approach to emergency stroke care.
The investment is part of a larger state effort to expand mobile stroke services across Texas. For UMC, it means continued support for a program designed around one important goal: getting patients the right care as quickly as possible.
Know the Signs
The Mobile Stroke Unit is most effective when patients or their families recognize a stroke and call 911 without waiting.
Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, facial drooping, trouble speaking, confusion, vision problems, dizziness or difficulty walking can all be signs of a stroke. If these symptoms appear, call 911 immediately. Do not wait to see if they go away and do not drive yourself to the hospital.
It is important to monitor your health regularly to prevent, detect, and manage potential risks. At UMC, our health professionals are here to support your overall well-being. Call (915) 521-7979 today to schedule an appointment or visit umcelpaso.org to learn more.
