The EpiKNOW project, led by Dr. Aisling Walsh from the Department of Public Health and Epidemiology at the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland, is investigating the healthcare needs of women with epilepsy in Ireland, from preconception to postpartum. The project is currently seeking valuable feedback from healthcare professionals. 

About the Project 

Around 25% of people with epilepsy in Ireland are women of childbearing age. While most can expect normal pregnancy outcomes, reproductive choices are complex. To date, no study has addressed the informational needs of women with epilepsy and their families from preconception to postpartum in Ireland. EpiKNOW aims to fill this gap. The study holds significant potential to change the future care of women with epilepsy who are planning pregnancies. 

Dr. Walsh will lead a dedicated research team, with expertise in supporting women with epilepsy, both in research and clinical contexts. This team includes our Digital Health investigator, and Head of Data Science Centre RCSI Prof Kathleen Bennett and Prof Norman Delanty, a consultant neurologist and one of our clinical researchers. 

Health Professional Recruitment 

A crucial part of this research is examining the current landscape of support services, pinpointing areas where health information and resources for women with epilepsy may be lacking. To gain a better understanding of this key question, the EpiKNOW team want to virtually interview health professionals who are based in the Republic of Ireland, and have contact with women at any stage from preconception to postpartum, and in one of the below roles: 

• They are looking for Registered Advanced Nurse Practitioners and epilepsy nurse specialists 
• Midwifery staff  
• Obstetricians within an epilepsy/obstetric clinic  
• Neurologists  
• Pharmacists and regulators  
• Other multidisciplinary team members 
• Those who are not involved in specialist epilepsy care: obstetricians, General Practitioners (GPs) 
• Practice nurses, midwives, public health nurses (PHNs) 

Recruitment and interviews are open until the end of June 2024.  

Interviews are estimated to take least one hour, and all participants will receive a €20 voucher as compensation for their time. 

If you have any questions about this research, require further information or would like to register your interest in taking part, please email Dr Jade Parnell: jadeparnell@rcsi.com.