Health Care Reform

Medications are critical

Most individuals with epilepsy rely on medications to control their seizures. Treatment of epilepsy is very individualized. The proper medication with the fewest side effects for one person may not be the same as it is for another. Determining the right medication for a particular person may require trial-and-error or the off-label use of a drug, along with close observation of blood levels and side effects.

Health insurance often makes treatment for epilepsy affordable to the individual, although problems remain. Waiting periods for Medicare and for coverage of pre-existing conditions may cause financial hardship for some families. Available treatment options may be cost-prohibitive or not covered in some insurance plans.

Access to appropriate and newer medication is an issue that concerns many people with epilepsy. The Foundation is opposed to policies which impede timely access to the full range of medications and treatment for epilepsy. Many of the cost containment policies operate under the theory that costs will decrease if administrative procedures are established. In fact, costs may actually shift to other parts of the healthcare system. This is why it is important that therapeutic advantages and clinical factors will be the primary reasons in determining if a medication will be available.

Limiting treatment choice will condemn thousands to a lifetime of seizures and all the risks that accompany them. Studies show that continuing seizures over time may cause brain damage and increase the risk of sudden death. For these reasons, the Foundation continues to advocate for reform at the federal and state level.

Why is health care reform so critical?

The rising cost of health care, prescription drugs, and the growing number of uninsured have led to the adoption of laws which restrict access to medications and put consumer care at risk. A recent study found that 44 percent of people who live with epilepsy continue to struggle for control of their seizures. For people with epilepsy, access to quality, affordable health care is critical to living with this serious chronic disorder.

How can you help?

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