Needs and Gaps in Education and Utilization of Social Determinants of Health in Epilepsy Care: A Survey of American Epilepsy Society Members.

Abstract

Background: Social determinants of health (SDoH) are increasingly recognized as critical drivers of health outcomes, influencing care access, treatment adherence, and disease management in people with epilepsy. However, it is unclear how clinicians integrate SDoH concepts into daily practice and what needs remain unmet in the field.

Methods: A mixed-methods survey was conducted among members of the American Epilepsy Society (AES) between December 2024 and February 2025 to assess current understanding, practices, challenges, and educational needs related to SDoH. Quantitative and qualitative data analyses were conducted on the survey results.

Results: A total of 189 responses were collected, with 80% from U.S.-based healthcare professionals. Approximately 69.5% reported addressing SDoH in their practice, most frequently focusing on healthcare access and quality, followed by social and community context. Common strategies for addressing SDoH commonly involve systematic screening, telemedicine expansion, and collaboration with social workers or community organizations. Benefits from addressing SDoH-related issues were reflected in improved medication adherence, appointment attendance, and patient engagement. However, effective implementation of SDoH in epilepsy care continues to be challenged by several key barriers, including limited institutional support, lack of standardized screening tools, time constraints, and inadequate access to social work services, mental-health services, and language support.

Conclusions: While SDoH awareness among AES members is high, significant implementation gaps persist. Respondents emphasized the need for expanded education, multidisciplinary resources, and institutional alignment. These findings underscore opportunities for AES to advance advocacy, professional development, and dissemination of best practices, supporting clinicians and institutions in promoting equitable, outcomes-driven epilepsy care across diverse populations.