Abstract Details Title The Use of a Stroke Specific Community Needs Assessment Survey to Drive Stroke Education in Underserved Communities Topic Health Care Disparities Presentation(s) Health Care Disparities Posters (7:00 AM-5:00 PM) Poster/Presentation Number 019 Background While treatment options for acute ischemic stroke continue to advance, many patients are still unable to recognize the symptoms fast enough to benefit. Minority populations are up to fifty percent more likely to have a stroke and are also more likely to have delays in hospital arrival. There is limited data on stroke awareness in underserved communities, and there are limited suggestions for community engagement for stroke education in minority populations. Objective To demonstrate the benefits of engaging underserved communities and assessing prior knowledge through the stroke specific needs assessment surveys Design/Methods A stroke specific community based needs assessment survey was created with six questions that assessed the public’s knowledge of stroke symptoms, risk factors, and prevention. The surveys were administered at health fairs in an urban community, which consists of a 75% minority population. Exact responses were recorded, and the surveys were then graded by the primary investigator with a predetermined key. Results were then presented to the stroke team and used to guide future quality improvement projects. Results A total of 85 surveys were completed. Over 50% of the community could not define stroke. Zero participants were able to correctly identify all four letters in the FAST acronym. 63.6% (n=54) were unable to identify one symptom of stroke. Only 14% (n=12) knew there were treatment options for stroke if they presented to the ED on time. Over 80% of patients knew to call 911 immediately if they witnessed stroke symptoms. Conclusions This study further confirms that stroke awareness is lacking, and stroke specific education is highly needed in underserved urban communities. Since many were aware to call 911 immediately, more research is needed regarding barriers to timely stroke care in underserved areas. Additionally, stroke needs assessment surveys can help stroke centers ensure underserved communities are being adequately educated. Authors/Disclosures PRESENTER No disclosure on file