Catalonia experts propose new roadmap for epilepsy care

Medical specialists, patient representatives, and socioeconomic experts have proposed a new roadmap to improve epilepsy care in Catalonia. The initiative, presented by Angelini Pharma and Foment del Treball, aims to implement an integrated care route that connects primary care, neurology services, and specialized units through common referral and follow-up criteria.

Key objectives of the proposal include strengthening specialized units, improving emergency response, and accelerating access to advanced diagnostic tests. The roadmap also emphasizes the need for better communication between the healthcare, education, and social welfare sectors to facilitate the social, educational, and professional inclusion of patients.

In Spain, epilepsy affects approximately 500,000 people, with over 47,000 in Catalonia. Despite medical advancements, 30% to 40% of patients continue to experience seizures even after receiving at least two appropriate treatments. Experts suggest that international reference centers in Catalonia should be better integrated with local centers to ensure consistent patient monitoring.