Gov. Abbott Announces $2.5M to Expand Mobile Stroke Care Access

AUSTIN, TX — Gov. Greg Abbott announced $2.5 million in grant funding to expand access to stroke care through mobile stroke units across Texas on Wednesday.

The funding is part of a $5 million appropriation by the 89th Texas Legislature to the Texas Health and Human Services Commission to improve stroke outcomes statewide. The remaining $2.5 million will be distributed in fiscal year 2027.

“Texas will ensure Texans across our state can access swift and practical medical care,” said Governor Abbott. “This $2.5 million investment into mobile stroke units will enable hospitals to better provide vital care without delay in the event of a stroke. I thank HHSC for their ongoing efforts to support our hospitals and the health of all Texans, no matter where they are.”

For fiscal year 2026, HHSC awarded funding to three providers to support new and expanded mobile stroke units:

• $1.25 million to Dell Seton Medical Center at The University of Texas at Austin to establish a new unit
• $500,000 to University Medical Center of El Paso to expand its existing unit
• $750,000 to Memorial Hermann Health System in Houston to expand its unit

Mobile stroke units are specialized ambulances equipped with CT scanners that allow medical teams to diagnose and begin treatment for strokes in the field, reducing the time between onset and care.

A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is blocked or reduced and is considered a life-threatening medical emergency. Warning signs include sudden face drooping, arm weakness, difficulty speaking, dizziness and vision changes.

“Timely stroke care can make a life-changing difference for Texans and their families,” HHS Executive Commissioner Stephanie Muth said. “This funding will help expand access to stroke care so more people can get treatment faster.”

According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, there were more than 71,000 stroke-related hospitalizations in Texas in 2024.

State leaders said mobile stroke units are especially critical in areas without close access to stroke centers, allowing patients to receive immediate care when every minute is crucial.

Find more information on services available to Texans on the HHS website.