An Epilepsy Workshop for Professionals

Abstract
This experimental study evaluated the impact of an epilepsy workshop format designed for community professionals who may be involved in the treatment plan and follow-up of patients. The goals of the workshop were to increase the professional''s knowledge and comfort in the presence of epilepsy and to effect better delivery of services to patients. To achieve this, a didactic approach to learning was modified to include patient contact and participant involvement in the learning process. A pre- and posttest experimental design was utilized. Those who attended the workshop improved significantly more than the 2 control groups in their knowledge of and comfort with epilepsy. Following the workshop, there was a marked increase in the referral of school children for possible neurological problems by teachers who had attended. There was a subsequent improvement in the delivery of health care services to such children in this county.