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Outcome findings from a multidisciplinary clinic for children with epilepsy
J Williams1, G B Sharp, M L Griebel
1Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock 72202, USA.
Insights
A multidisciplinary epilepsy clinic improved care for children with chronic epilepsy. Parental satisfaction was highest when families received ample information on diagnosis and treatment, alongside positive staff interactions.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Children with chronic or intractable epilepsy face significant medical and social challenges.
- A specialized multidisciplinary clinic was developed to enhance care and address psychosocial needs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the multidisciplinary epilepsy clinic's structure and function.
- To examine referral patterns for pediatric epilepsy patients.
- To identify factors predicting parental satisfaction with the clinic's approach.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of patients served by the clinic over two years.
- Administration of the Epilepsy Clinic Satisfaction Questionnaire to 136 respondents.
- Stepwise regression analysis to determine predictors of parental satisfaction.
Main Results:
- The amount of information provided regarding epilepsy diagnosis and treatment was the strongest predictor of parental satisfaction.
- Positive staff attitude also significantly correlated with higher parental ratings of clinic quality.
Conclusions:
- Effective communication about diagnosis and treatment is crucial for parental satisfaction in pediatric epilepsy care.
- A positive and informative approach by clinic staff enhances the overall patient experience.
Abstract:
Children with chronic or intractable epilepsy are at higher risk for medical and social difficulties. A multidisciplinary clinic was established to improve medical management and address psychosocial issues. The purposes of the present study were to describe the multidisciplinary clinic, retrospectively examine the referral patterns for children served by the clinic, and analyze factors significantly predictive of parental satisfaction with the multidisciplinary approach. The Epilepsy Clinic Satisfaction Questionnaire was sent to all patients seen in the clinic over a 2-year period. Outcome findings were based on 136 respondents. A stepwise regression analysis indicated that the best predictor of parental rating of clinic quality was the amount of information given concerning the diagnosis and treatment of epilepsy. Staff attitude was also significantly related to parental satisfaction.