Evaluating the Effectiveness and Cost-Effectiveness of Seizure Dogs in Persons With Medically Refractory Epilepsy in the Netherlands: Study Protocol for a Stepped Wedge Randomized Controlled Trial (EPISODE)
2020
__Background:__ Epilepsy is associated with a high disease burden, impacting the lives of
people with epilepsy and their caregivers and family. Persons with medically refractory
epilepsy experience the greatest burden, suffering from profound physical, psychological,
and social consequences. Anecdotal evidence suggests these persons may benefit
from a seizure dog. As the training of a seizure dog is a substantial investment,
their accessibility is limited in the absence of collective reimbursement as is seen
in the Netherlands. Despite sustained interest in seizure dogs, scientific knowledge
on their benefits and costs remains scarce. To substantiate reimbursement decisions
stronger evidence is required. The EPISODE study aims to provide this evidence
by evaluating the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of seizure dogs in adults with
medically refractory epilepsy.
__Methods:__ The study is designed as a stepped wedge randomized controlled trial that
compares the use of seizure dogs in addition to usual care, with usual care alone. The
study includes adults with epilepsy for whom current treatment options failed to achieve
seizure freedom. Seizure frequency of participants should be at least two seizures per
week, and the seizures should be associated with a high risk of injury or dysfunction.
During the 3 year follow-up period, participants receive a seizure dog in a randomized
order. Outcome measures are taken at multiple time points both before and after receiving
the seizure dog. Seizure frequency is the primary outcome of the study and will be
recorded continuously using a seizure diary. Questionnaires measuring seizure severity,
quality of life, well-being, resource use, productivity, social participation, and caregiver
burden will be completed at baseline and every 3 months thereafter. The study is
designed to include a minimum of 25 participants.
__Discussion:__ This protocol describes the first randomized controlled trial on seizure
dogs. The study will provide comprehensive data on the effectiveness and cost effectiveness
of seizure dogs in adults with medically refractory epilepsy. Broader benefits
of seizure dogs for persons with epilepsy and their caregivers are taken into account,
as well as the welfare of the dogs. The findings of the study can be used to inform
decision-makers on the reimbursement of seizure dogs.
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