Epilepsy Care in Ontario - OHTAC Recommendations

1 in 100 around the world are living with epilepsy. Every year 6500 Ontario families will experience the first seizure of a loved one. The Ontario Health Technology Advisory Committee has just posted a recommendation for 'Epilepsy Care in Ontario' and are asking stakeholders to comment on the recommendation. Currently there is no organized system of care in Ontario for people with epilepsy and no government funded support system, or even a standardized approach to diagnosis and treatment. This is about to change. With your support for the proposed recommendations, a series of changes and a standardized process will be implemented. What is missing from this report? The report identifies that people with epilepsy are more likely to suffer from poor mental health, social isolation and stigma, however it never mentions the important role of community organizations supporting epilepsy, including local epilepsy organizations. The role that these local organizations can play in the life of those living with epilepsy and seizure disorders is invaluable and includes everything from employment support, counselling, advocacy and social programs to help combat the social isolation that is felt by too many of those living with epilepsy. By signing this petition you are supporting the recommendations that the OHTAC have put out, and are encouraging them to add in a section about community support involving local epilepsy organizations. To see the entire report go to: http://www.ohqc.ca/en/mas/ohtac_rec_openComment.html To send personalized comments please e-mail them to: OHTAC_Comments@hqontario.ca Thank you for your support.