Hawley SR, Paschal AM, Ablah E, St Romain T, Liow K, Molgaard CA. Initial Perspectives from Midwestern Neurologists: Epilepsy Patients' Barriers and Motivators for Seeking Treatment.
Epilepsia 2007;
48:1920-5. [PMID:
17561955 DOI:
10.1111/j.1528-1167.2006.01137.x]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE
Epilepsy is a chronic neurological illness that affects 2.7 million people in the United States, but remains poorly understood. Care providers may not recognize their patients' need for epilepsy information, contributing to treatment barriers, such as stigmatization and poor patient-provider communication.
METHODS
The current study piloted a survey of epilepsy-related attitudes and perceptions of 33 Midwestern neurologists. The survey included questions about perceived barriers to and motivators for treatment, thoughts on misperceptions of epilepsy in the community and in the patient population, and potential interventions to address misperceptions.
RESULTS
Respondents perceived misinformation and lack of knowledge in patients and the general public that could be contributing to the barriers that exist to treat patients adequately. Respondents suggested potential methods for addressing misperceptions effectively.
DISCUSSION
This study of neurologists' perceptions about epilepsy barriers and needs provides an important perspective for the development of interventions to address misperceptions and barriers among patients and the public.
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