Migraine consultations: a triangle of viewpoints

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Patient-Physician Communication
• Healthcare Outcomes

Background:

• Existing research explores patient attitudes toward headache consultations.
• Discrepancies often exist between patient, primary physician, and specialist assessments of headache conditions.
• Understanding these differing perspectives is vital for effective patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the 'triangle' of perceptions among patients, referring physicians, and specialists regarding headache consultations.
• To identify common reasons for referral and patient-specific concerns.
• To explore the correlation between perceived needs and consultation outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of patient and physician perspectives in headache consultations.
• Identification of primary reasons for referral, such as treatment failure.
• Comparison of patient-reported symptoms and physician interpretations.

Main Results:

• Failure of treatment response was the most frequent reason for referral.
• Patients perceived an increase in headache frequency as additional attacks, contributing to treatment failure.
• Patient requests for reassurance aligned with their desire for further information.

Conclusions:

• Recognizing and addressing patient fears and expectations significantly impacts consultation outcomes.
• A shared understanding between patient and physician is key to successful headache management.
• Empathic communication enhances the effectiveness of specialist consultations.