Danielle Andrade, MD, MSc: Communicating and Network Building in Epilepsy Care

“Developing this network of colleagues that you can work with in the adult setting is very important [in epilepsy care].”

Danielle Andrade, MD, MSc, professor of medicine, neurology, University of Toronto, spoke at the 2019 International Epilepsy Congress, in Bangkok, Thailand, about the need for better programs focused on the transition of care from pediatric to adult settings for patients with epilepsy. She shared her experience working within one, and the advantages it can provide for the adult neurologist who will be caring for a new patient.

In a conversation with NeurologyLive, Andrade spoke about how this process can be immediately improved by focusing on the relationships between the adult care team and the pediatric care team. While communication can vary from center to center, she noted that maintaining a consistent relationship with the pediatric team is exceptionally helpful in ensuring patients are transitioned smoothly and with the correct information.

Additionally, she shared advice on the need for a network of other specialties, such as psychiatrists and nephrologists, who can help the adult neurologist co-manage their patients with intellectual challenges or tuberous sclerosis.

For more coverage of IEC 2019, click here.

REFERENCES

Andrade D. The need for transition programs. Presented at: 2019 International Epilepsy Congress. June 22-26, 2019; Bangkok, Thailand. Presentation 71.