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Letters to the Editor
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Epilepsy
Rewarding work with deserving patients
From Mr D. A. Ellerby, MRPharmS
I write in support of the article by Joanna Lumb concerning the provision
of support for
epileptic patients by community pharmacists (PJ,
26 April 2008, p509).
As a practice-based pharmacist I have been carrying out pharmacist-led epilepsy
monitoring clinics since 2004. Essentially, the clinic appointment is straightforward,
template-prompted and involves the recording of date of last fit, fit frequency,
side effects noted, blood pressure, discussion of diet, smoking and alcohol
consumption, provision of contraceptive or pregnancy advice, dealing with driving
queries, medication review and arranging a follow-up date. This is not rocket
science.
However, interwoven into the structure of the appointment there is frequently
a quality discussion with the patient bringing concerns and questions into
the open. The clinic is now perceived as a useful and welcome intervention
by the patient, allowing early warning with co-morbidities or simply a close
and discreet level of support during difficult episodes.
Access to myself between
appointments is encouraged on an “as required” basis and, although
rarely required, such access has been of significant use at least twice in
four years.
Anecdotally, many patients comment favourably on being invited to the clinic
and numerous problems with side effects or episodes and seizures have been
highlighted and resolved satisfactorily. This is a rewarding and deserving
group of patients with which to work.
Pharmacists should ask their local doctors’ practice if there is space,
time and a desire to devolve the monitoring of epileptic patients to them and,
if so, prepare their bid for the service. They should allow 20 minutes per
patient and be prepared to listen. Dave Ellerby
Elgin, Morayshire |
The
Pharmaceutical Journal