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.