Epilepsy training needs for Spanish neurologists: ARPE study results

Abstract Introduction This study was designed to create an updated training program on epilepsy to solve whatever problems that general neurologists may detect in patients during consults. Objectives To understand general neurologists' training needs in order to plan a specific program that may improve/standardize the clinical management of patients with epilepsy. Material and methods 122 general neurologists non-subspecialized on epilepsy were surveyed in all regions of Spain regarding the following issues: initial diagnosis, treatment, special situations by population group and/or comorbidity, prognosis and follow-up as well as whatever other topics the training program should cover. Results Neurologists agreed that treatment was the most interesting topic for them (100%), followed by diagnosis (46.67%), special situations by population group and/or comorbidity (30%), and prognosis/follow-up (7.14%). There were insignificant differences attributable to age and sex. Conclusions Training ensures success, provided that it takes into account pedagogical considerations and professional targets to be trained, as well as technological and formal issues.