The dearth of epilepsy services in Ireland is a scandal waiting to happen and puts the country among the worst in Europe for epilepsy care, a seminar was told today.
Dr Norman Delanty, consultant neurologist and epileptologist at Beaumont Hospital, told the seminar that with one neurologist for every 210,000 people, Ireland has a ratio nearly half the recommended amount.
He said: "There is currently a major dearth of epilepsy care resources in Ireland and another scandal is waiting to happen if the situation is not improved. We need a significant proactive plan to improve the situation with support from specialists, the HSE, government, patients and the voluntary sector," he said.
Dr Delanty added changes in demographics are not being planned for.
He called for a National Centre for Epilepsy to provide multi-disciplinary care for individuals on a short-term residential basis as well as outpatient and research facilities.
The seminar was organised by Brainwave and the Irish Epilepsy Association as part of Brain Awareness Week March 10th-16th.
Brainwave CEO Mike Glynn said that two out of every five people experiencing seizures could be seizure free. "This is largely due to deficits in care. There are 60-80 epilepsy related deaths in Ireland each year, many of which could be prevented" Mr Glynn added.
For more information see www.nai.ie