Time to change epilepsy services

Only about 50% of people diagnosed with epilepsy achieve freedom from seizures, despite numerous reports showing that numbers could be improved significantly if services were reviewed and updated in line with national guidance. Among the more recent initiatives has been the development of the Sapphire nurse role, the first national nurse consultant for epilepsy commissioning (see panel). This article highlights the effect the role is having and examines other initiatives to improve clinical and social outcomes for people with epilepsy.

Juliet Ashton provides an update on commissioning and service provision, examining where improvements are needed