New Tool Helps Doctors Choose Better Epilepsy Medications

Source: JMIR formative research

Summary

This study looked at a new online tool called EPstat, which provides doctors with real-world data about how well different epilepsy medications work for patients. The research focused on neurologists and residents in five hospitals, gathering their experiences and opinions about using EPstat after it was launched in 2022. The goal was to see how helpful this tool could be in choosing the right medications for people with epilepsy.

The key findings showed that many doctors were aware of EPstat, and some found it easy to use and helpful in their practice. Out of the 27 doctors who responded to a survey, 70% knew about the tool, and 37% had actually used it. Those who used it reported that it influenced their medication choices. However, some doctors wanted more information included in the tool, especially about newer medications, and they faced some challenges in using it initially.

This research is important because it highlights how online tools like EPstat can help doctors make better decisions about epilepsy treatments based on real patient data. However, there are limitations, such as the need for more comprehensive information and the initial barriers to use. The study suggests that improving access and expanding the tool's features could make it even more useful for healthcare providers in the future.

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