Integrated Care Pathway Proposed
Foment del Treball and Angelini Pharma have presented a consensus document titled ‘Epilepsy in Catalonia. The challenge of comprehensive care’, developed by epilepsy specialists, patients, and experts from socioeconomic and labour sectors. The initiative aims to improve healthcare access and quality of life for the more than 47,000 people living with epilepsy in Catalonia. The document proposes establishing an integrated care pathway across the region, connecting primary care, neurology services, and specialised units through standardised referral and follow-up criteria. It also recommends strengthening Clinical Expertise Networks (XUEC), particularly in rare epilepsy-related diseases, and expanding telemedicine tools to ensure equitable access to specialist care, especially in remote areas.
Specialist Care and Emergency Protocols
Dr Manuel Toledo, coordinator of the Epilepsy Unit at Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, stressed the need to integrate internationally recognised centres like his with local healthcare providers to ensure continuity and proximity of care. Vall d’Hebron is designated by the Servei Català de la Salut as an XUEC centre for rare diseases involving epilepsy and operates 24-hour video-EEG monitoring units for precise diagnosis and treatment planning (hospital.vallhebron.com). The consensus calls for common emergency action protocols, faster neurological assessments after seizures, and enhanced specialised nursing. It also advocates for stronger mental health support and a smoother transition from paediatric to adult epilepsy care.
Epilepsy goes far beyond seizures. Many people continue to face barriers affecting their autonomy, studies, work, relationships, and quality of life. We need comprehensive, coordinated, and equitable care that also considers cognitive, emotional, and social needs.
, David Sanahuja, president of Si jo puc, tu també #epilep
Education and Workplace Inclusion
In educational settings, the document recommends improved teacher training, updated seizure response protocols, and adapted school environments. In the workplace, it urges adjustments to working conditions and better coordination between neurology departments, occupational medicine, mutual insurance companies, and social partners. Laureà Folch, executive director of Foment del Treball, emphasised that inclusion must balance safety and health protection with the prevention of discrimination based solely on diagnosis. Daniel Gheorghe, general director of Angelini Pharma Spain, reiterated the company’s commitment to improving patients’ quality of life through collaboration between healthcare professionals, patient associations, and institutions.
Reported by badalonadigital.com, hospital.vallhebron.com, siendomayor.com, El Independiente @elindepcom, foment.com, vallhebron.com, vhir.vallhebron.com, Badalona Digital.
