2017 Volume 35 Issue 1 Pages 42-54
The aim of this study was to examine the differences in perceptions between patients and their families regarding epilepsy treatment. Social benefits of epilepsy treatment were evaluated using willingness to pay (WTP). A web survey was conducted, and a total of 932 valid responses were obtained from respondents, including 382 patients and 548 family members. As for the median WTP for continuing current epilepsy treatment, families' answer (2,000 yen/month) was significantly higher than patients' answer (1,000 yen/month) (P<0.01). The median WTP in addition to current self-payment for new therapy that can achieve ideal condition without seizures was significantly higher in families' answer (5,000 yen/month) than in patients' answer (2,000 yen/month) (P<0.01). Although there was a difference in perception between patients and families, the results of this study confirmed that both demanded better treatment and considered social awareness and support to be important in the daily lives of patients with epilepsy.
