The ‘Epilepsy Passport’ launches in a bid to transform children’s epilepsy care

An innovative tool developed by the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health is set to improve communication between healthcare professionals, and keep children and young people with epilepsy out of hospital.

Caring for children with epilepsy is complex and often challenging, testing every part of the healthcare system. With a lack of communication being one of the major factors leading to poor epilepsy care and management, it is paramount that a clear partnership and effective communication exists between healthcare-providers and children with epilepsy and their families to ensure they receive the best treatment. With this goal in mind, the ‘Epilepsy Passport’ was launched at the House of Commons on 18 September 2015.

The Epilepsy Passport is designed to be carried by a child with epilepsy to provide healthcare professionals with easily accessible and up-to-date information on their condition in the event of an emergency. In addition, it will mean that parents do not need to repeat their child’s epilepsy history at each medical visit – a major frustration for many families.

The Epilepsy Passport contains essential information about a child’s epilepsy, including an emergency care plan, medication history and key professional contacts, as well as details of the child’s ‘rescue medication’ and which medications should be avoided. This information is designed to be carried in a small plastic wallet for safe keeping and easy identification (pictured).

The vision is for the Epilepsy Passport to become a universal resource in epilepsy care and, together with other initiatives, ensure children with epilepsy receive the best integrated healthcare possible. For more information, visit www.epilepsypassport.org.uk.