Pediatric Epilepsy: The Importance of Neuropsychological Consultation in Collaborative Care Teams and Identifying Areas for Improvement

Pediatric Epilepsy care is primarily managed by a neurologist. Children with epilepsy often live life with minimal complications. However, many other children have extensive complications associated with epilepsy. These complications at times extend beyond the scope of practice of a neurologist, and are best served with specialized care. A coordinated care team model can achieve this goal, but are usually available only through major medical centers. The need for collaborative care extends far beyond the scope of what a major medical center can provide due to patient volume, needs in rural areas, and ancillary medical needs. Although all non-neurology professionals with a subspecialty in epilepsy are important in the overall care of children with epilepsy, neuropsychology in the collaborative relationship with neurology will be the primary focus of this article. Identifying specific roles and providing recommendations for improved care will be discussed.