Establishing principles for migraine management in primary care

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Primary Care Medicine
• Evidence-Based Practice

Background:

• Migraine management guidelines require evaluation for international applicability.
• Headache specialists convened to establish evidence-based principles for global use.

Framework:

• Twelve core principles identified for migraine screening, diagnosis, and treatment.
• Emphasis on patient-centered care, including individualized treatment plans and shared decision-making.

Implementation:

• Utilize questionnaires to assess migraine impact and guide management decisions.
• Regular follow-up with migraine calendars and outcome measures is crucial.
• Acute, rescue, and prophylactic medications should be prescribed strategically.

Implications:

• Primary care clinicians can effectively manage most migraine patients.
• Structured, individualized care improves patient outcomes and conserves healthcare resources.
• Adapting management to patient needs and illness progression is key.