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Unnecessary Emergency Transport and Care of Grand Mal Seizures

Arizona Physicians IPA, Inc., Phoenix, Arizona

Arthur L. Pelberg, M.D.

Arizona Physicians IPA, Inc., Phoenix, Arizona

Every source quoted in this study has clearly re futed the need for emergency transport and care of an uncomplicated grand mal seizure in a managed epileptic patient. This review of a large patient pop ulation has determined that 27% of emergency de partment seizures were uncomplicated and occurred in patients already under care. This represented 0.25% of all emergency department visits and nearly $200,000 in claims to this managed care entity per year. Taking some statistical liberties, a national health care expenditure of $270,000,000 is suggested for this single abuse. It is hoped that further education of the public, medical community, and epileptic pa tients will produce a comfort level that permits deci sions about emergency transport and care of seizures. These savings could translate into basic health insur ance for thousands of our medically deprived citizens.

American Journal of Medical Quality, Vol. 8, No. 2, 53-55 (1993)
DOI: 10.1177/0885713X9300800205


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