Impact of COVID-19 on Dravet Syndrome Patients and Care – Access to Treatment and Telemedicine Use
The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted healthcare access for Dravet Syndrome patients worldwide. Lockdowns and overwhelmed healthcare systems delayed routine appointments, EEG monitoring, and medication adjustments, raising concerns over seizure control.
On the positive side, telemedicine adoption surged, enabling remote consultations and prescription renewals. This provided a lifeline for families while reducing exposure risk. Many caregivers reported greater flexibility and convenience, though limitations existed for services requiring in-person assessments, such as genetic testing or therapy sessions.
COVID-19 also introduced indirect challenges, including increased caregiver stress, interruptions in educational programs, and reduced access to respite care. For some families, financial hardship compounded the difficulty of managing complex medical needs.
As healthcare systems adapt, telemedicine is likely to remain a valuable tool for Dravet care, complementing in-person visits and improving accessibility for families in remote or underserved areas.