Research and development of telemedical applications and mobile health technologies in epilepsy Survey in Germany, Austria and Switzerland

Background Telemedicine and mobile health technologies are increasingly being used in epileptology. The survey covers the practical use of these applications and the scientific activities in this field in German-speaking epilepsy centers, epilepsy outpatient clinics and epilepsy specialist practices. Methods Online survey among members of the German Society for Epileptology (DGfE). Results A total of 35 individuals from 31 different institutions participated in the survey. Of the survey participants 86% use telemedicine (mainly patient to doctor applications: (video) telephone consultations) and 40% each recommend mobile health technologies to their patients or use them in the care of epilepsy patients. Current projects mentioned were 5 projects on telemedical doctor to doctor applications at different locations in Germany and 4 projects on automated seizure detection (3 using wearables, 1 not using wearables). Discussion Developments in epileptology reflect developments in many areas of the healthcare system and thus it can be assumed that the use of telemedicine and mobile health technologies will continue to increase.