Working restrictions and disability benefits eligibility in patients with functional (psychogenic) seizures: An international survey of physicians’ opinions

Work difficulties, work restrictions, and disability benefits in people with functional seizures: A survey study

“…Most participants felt that at least some people with functional seizures should qualify for disability benefits and remain eligible as long as they are symptomatic; with most answering that all people with FS should qualify, regardless of job type. These results are similar to a prior survey of clinicians, which found that 80% felt at least some people with FS should qualify for disability; with 17% answering that all people should qualify, regardless of job type [9] . A key difference in our survey regarding the question of disability was the option to choose “work accommodations or a new job compatible with their seizures” separate from disability qualification [ Table 2 ].…”

“…This survey group was more supportive of work restrictions than an international group of clinicians in a prior survey. In that study, 46% suggested some restrictions, 24% expressed uncertainty, and 30% stated that people with FS should be counseled to pursue any job they liked [9] . These differing responses might suggest that people with FS have greater concern and ambivalence about their ability to work than the clinicians caring for them.…”

“…Compounding the affected person’s perception of disability are those held by their medical providers, employers, and loved ones, which can vary widely. An international survey found that clinicians treating people with functional seizures have differing opinions regarding work restrictions and disability benefits; with mental health professionals favoring lifelong benefits and neurologists favoring limited working restrictions [9] . Given uncertainty and disagreement among clinicians, disability services, and patients, it is important to assess patients’ perspectives.…”