Pitfalls and unmet needs of transition in epilepsy: Understanding the adult neurologist perspective

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Pediatric Neurology
• Healthcare Transition

Background:

• The transition from pediatric to adult epilepsy care is crucial for optimal outcomes in young people.
• Failure in this transition process is linked to adverse epilepsy, cognitive, and behavioral results.
• Despite growing research interest, clinical transition remains a sensitive issue for adult neurologists.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the challenges and unmet needs of epilepsy care transition from the perspective of adult neurologists.
• To identify specific difficulties adult neurologists encounter during the patient transition process.
• To gather insights for improving the transition of care for young individuals with epilepsy.

Main Methods:

• A survey was distributed to adult neurologists to gather their perspectives on the transition process.
• The survey assessed whether transition is perceived as problematic, its impact on clinical practice, and identified key issues.
• The survey also aimed to elicit suggestions for enhancing the transition of care.

Main Results:

• Adult neurologists perceive the transition process as complex and challenging.
• Key issues identified include the need for a shared action plan between pediatric and adult care providers.
• There is a recognized need for enhanced training in childhood epilepsies for adult neurologists.

Conclusions:

• The transition of epilepsy care requires a collaborative approach involving both pediatric and adult neurologists.
• Multidisciplinary team meetings are suggested as a valuable component of the transition process.
• Improving adult neurologists' knowledge of childhood epilepsies is essential for successful care transitions.