[Specialised headache units, a feasible alternative in Spain]

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• Headaches are a primary driver of neurological consultations in primary and specialized care.
• Existing healthcare models face challenges in managing high patient volumes and optimizing treatment pathways for headache disorders.
• The perceived high cost and low priority have hindered the widespread adoption of specialized headache units in Spain.

Framework:

• This study defines the essential structure and resource requirements for a functional headache unit.
• A consensus was reached among 12 multidisciplinary professionals based on a literature review.
• The proposed model is designed for a population catchment area of 350,000 inhabitants.

Implementation:

• Key resources identified include essential professional staff (supervisory and technical) and literature-based minimum requirements.
• Initial first-year costs for implementing a headache unit are estimated at approximately €107,287.19.
• The primary barrier to implementation is the need for dedicated, specialized personnel.

Implications:

• Headache units enhance the quality of neurological care, reduce waiting lists, and improve access to novel treatments.
• A cost-benefit analysis suggests that the long-term economic advantages, considering productivity losses, outweigh the initial investment.
• Generalizing headache units across Spain is recommended to address the significant burden of headache disorders and optimize healthcare resource allocation.