On Time Saves Lives: Survey Insights and Position Statement from the American Epilepsy Society on Barriers to Antiseizure Medication Access

Rationale Seizure medication must be taken regularly to be effective; seizures often result from missed doses. Numerous barriers can delay people with epilepsy (PWE) from obtaining medication on time. Methods Two surveys were designed, one for PWE and their caregivers and one for healthcare providers (HCPs). Surveys were delivered electronically and data analysis was descriptive. Results Medication unavailability was the most common barrier reported. Additional barriers in order of decreasing frequency included: the message “too soon to refill,” insurance coverage, prescription delay, and cost. For non-active drivers, transportation was a barrier. Sequelae of delayed medication access included: stress, emergency medication utilization, and hospitalization. Access to seizure medications was recognized as a problem by 95% of HCP surveyed, most frequently attributed to insurance barriers and cost. Over 10% of HCP reported a patient death from a medication access issue. Conclusion The American Epilepsy Society's Position Statement on medication access supports reducing obstacles that delay obtaining medication through a multifaceted approach. It recommends elimination of unnecessary regulatory barriers, cost containment and insurance reform, supply chain transparency, practice management guidance, and ongoing research.