Transient ischemic attack evaluation models: hospitalization, same-day clinics, or rapid evaluation units.

Transient ischemic attack (TIA) has been well established as a risk factor for future stroke. Therefore, the diagnosis of TIA may serve as a golden opportunity for providing early time sensitive therapies to this high-risk group. Currently, there is no standardized algorithm for triaging suspected TIA, leading to errors in diagnosis, significant delays in evaluation and treatment, and greater morbidity and mortality. There are several proposed methods for triaging patients: hospitalization, same-day clinics, and rapid evaluation units. We review the benefits and limitations for each model, focusing on stroke risk reduction, costs, and feasibility.