"It is possible in MCOs to identify prevalent and incident cases from existing management information systems data for monitoring disease burden and developing disease management programs," states E. Wayne Holden, Ph.D., lead author of the study.
Systems already do exist that utilize the existing data in MCOs but there is a need for specific data analysis related to epilepsy due to the unique and contributing factors such as seizures, risk factors, and demographics. The algorithms developed for this study were especially sensitive to determine epilepsy prevalence, incidence and mortality in an MCO population, helping administrators to develop and focus interventions and assess the impact of quality-improvement programs. The best model correctly classified 90% of the cases in the study.
Mortality rates are significantly higher for individuals with epilepsy, about 2-3 times that of the average population. A crucial step in administering interventions to improve quality of life and health is the accurate identification of patients. Researchers found that determining incidence in an MCO is particularly challenging due to the constant ebb and flow of members. Preexisting diagnoses were often missed in new patient members and often pertinent data for epilepsy cases were not collected.
This study is published in Epilepsia. Media wishing to receive a PDF of the article please contact medicalnews@bos.blackwellpublishing.net.
E. Wayne Holden, Ph.D. has published several articles on issues related to epilepsy through projects funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. His major research interests include identification and treatment of mental health problems in community settings, evaluation of children's mental health services through the systems of care approach, and health services research. For questions and interviews, please contact Dr. Holden at (404) 321-3211 or emery.w.holden@orcmacro.com.
About Epilepsia
Epilepsia is the leading, most authoritative source for current clinical and research results on all aspects of epilepsy. As the journal of the International League Against Epilepsy, Epilepsia presents subscribers with scientific evidence and clinical methodology in: clinical neurology, neurophysiology, molecular biology, neuroimaging, neurochemistry, neurosurgery, pharmacology, neuroepidemiology, and therapeutic trials. Each monthly issue features original peer reviewed articles, progress in epilepsy research, brief communications, editorial commentaries, special supplements, meeting reports, book reviews, and announcements.
About the International League Against Epilepsy
The International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) was founded inBudapest in September 1909. It has branches now in 92 countries and over 15,000 members. It is a non-profit and non-governmental association, with official links with the World Health Organization and the International Bureau for Epilepsy. It is the world's preeminent association of physicians and other health professionals working towards a world where no persons' life is limited by Epilepsy. Its mission is to provide the highest quality of care and well-being for those afflicted with the condition and other related seizure disorders. For information on epilepsy and education, please visit www.ilae.org for a patient brochure under the "resources" link.
About Blackwell Publishing
Blackwell Publishing is the world's leading society publisher, partnering with more than 600 academic and professional societies. Blackwell publishes over 750 journals and 600 text and reference books annually, across a wide range of academic, medical, and professional subjects.
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