Surveys

One of the methods we use for deciding which campaigns we run is by asking our members and website visitors for their opinions on various subjects.

As the UK's leading epilepsy charity, we're also asked to help with recruitment for studies the our membership magazine 'Epilepsy Today', branches, online community and website. Before agreeing to publicise such projects all requests are thoroughly assessed to ensure that the studies are genuine and will ultimately benefit people with epilepsy.

• Have you been refused vagus nerve stimulation?

Have you been refused vagus nerve stimulation?

Epilepsy Action has received reports that an increasing number of people in the UK are being refused vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) by their local primary care trust (PCT) because of the cost, even though they have been referred for the treatment by their consultant.

Vagus nerve stimulation is a treatment for epilepsy where a small generator is implanted under the skin below the left collar bone. This is connected to a lead with three coils at one end. These coils are wrapped around the vagus nerve in the left side of the neck in a small operation. The VNS stimulates the vagus nerve at intervals to reduce the frequency and intensity of seizures.

Epilepsy Action would like to find out how big a problem this is and how many people have been refused VNS treatment because of the cost. We would like to hear from you if you have been refused VNS treatment by your local PCT after being referred for the treatment by your consultant.

If this applies to you please contact Michaela Bartlett, campaigns and policy officer, on 0113 2108877 or email mbartlett@epilepsy.org.uk.

How Epilepsy Action can help your study

Epilepsy Action is always pleased to support genuine studies aimed at improving the daily lives of people living with epilepsy. If you are feel that we may be able to assist you by helping with recruitment of participants, or in any other way, please contact Margaret Rawnsley research@epilepsy.org.uk or ring 0113 210 8800 (UK) or (+44) 113 210 8800 (International)

Disclaimer

While Epilepsy Action endeavours to take every precaution to ensure that such  projects are bone fide, the inclusion of such requests does not imply that Epilepsy Action endorses the study or recommends people with epilepsy should take part. Anyone who wishes to participate in such projects should satisfy themselves that this will not be prejudicial to their health or well-being. Epilepsy Action cannot be held legally responsible for any negative outcome.