Epilepsy in a community--management and social impact

A clinic for adult epileptics run by a primary health care centre was "medically' audited to assess the quality of care, aetiological factors and social implications of this condition in the community served. It was found that drug compliance is poor (55%), and seizure control is suboptimal. There is a high incidence (38%) of post-traumatic epilepsy. The patients predominantly rely on social welfare for support--only 11% are self-supporting and 62% receive a disability grant. The role of a special clinic for co-ordinated and comprehensive continuing care is emphasized.