Identifying the strengths and weaknesses of epilepsy care in general practice – a case note review

Abstract

To suggest how to improve primary epilepsy care by assessing the strengths and weaknesses of epilepsy care in general practice by reviewing practice records in relation to qualities and outcomes framework (QOF) indicators and epilepsy guidelines. Concerns have been raised about epilepsy care in the UK. The general practice QOF indicators offered the first opportunity to take on structured epilepsy care in the UK. The QOF includes targets for this condition and national guidelines list key priorities to improve care. This study explores how general practice systems are delivering this care. A case notes review in 27 practices in the north-east of England. Adults with epilepsy were identified from practice morbidity registers and a READ code search. Data from 1333 patients were collected on the frequency and location of epilepsy review, type of epilepsy and classification of seizures, epilepsy medication ordering, and individual and practice demographic data. The data were entered into SPSS for frequency analysis and grouped for further analysis: Primary Care Trust (PCT), age and medication ordering groups (satisfactory, moderate or poor). Of the patients, 24% did not have a record of type of epilepsy and about a third of patients had no seizure classification recorded. One-fifth of patients were not reviewed in the previous year but of those who were, the majority were seen in general practice. Seizure frequency was not recorded in the last 12 months in one-quarter of patients. Adherence and recording of seizure information were related to age of patient. Epilepsy registers were inaccurate. The findings suggest that epilepsy care can be improved by using review and monitoring systems to ensure a complete and accurate epilepsy register and appropriate annual clinical and medication review. © 2008, Cambridge University Press. All rights reserved.