SIP-24-008: Managing Epilepsy Well (MEW) Network

Emory University, Atlanta GA

Investigators

Abstract

ABSTRACT Self-management programs for epilepsy improve quality of live and co-morbidities such as depression and cognitive problems; however, there are barriers to widespread implementation and dissemination. In addition, to promoting adoption of MEW self-management programs, the cost and cost-effectiveness of the program should be shared with health systems and payer. The long-term goal is to widely disseminate and implement effective, low-cost self-management programs. The overall objective of this application, as Coordinating Center of the Managing Epilepsy Well (MEW) Network, is to conduct cost evaluations of two MEW self-management programs to influence successful dissemination and implementation (Component A) and to collaborate with MEW network epilepsy partners to establish effective dissemination strategies for our research (Component B). The two programs for the cost evaluations include HOBSCOTCH and Project UPLIFT. HOBSCOTCH is a self-management program for cognitive problems delivered primarily over the phone in an individual setting. Project UPLIFT empowers people with epilepsy to improve their own mental health through mindfulness and cognitive-behavioral skills in a group setting. The following are the MEW Coordinating Center’s specific aims: Aim 1. Coordinate, communicate, and collaborate across the network of MEW centers and partners. Aim 2A. Implement and evaluate two evidence-based MEW programs HOBSCOTCH (HOme Based Self- Management and COgnitve Training CHanges Lives, and Project UPLIFT (Using Practice and Learning to Increase Favorable Thoughts) in community settings. Aim 2B. Conduct a health unity cost analyses of the HOBSCOTCH and Project UPLIFT. Aim 3. Disseminate MEW Network program and study findings through research projects and other national partners. To accomplish Aim1, Emory University will partner with Dartmouth College to coordinate Network-wide efforts to implement, promote and disseminate self-management programs to relevant local, regional, and national stakeholders. Aims 2A and 2B will increase the understanding of the cost and cost effectiveness of self- management programs. These data can be shared through program and policy briefs with health systems and payers to increase their understanding of the broad contributions of the MEW self-management programs (Aim 3). Improved knowledge about the cost effectiveness of these programs will be significant to increase generalized knowledge of their costs and benefits, in order to scale and reimburse epilepsy self-management interventions to best serve people with epilepsy.