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Table 2 Realities and requirements for guidelines for low-income and middle- income countries

From: Epilepsy care guidelines for low- and middle- income countries: From WHO mental health GAP to national programs

Reality

Requirement

Care is largely provided by non-physician healthcare workers with very basic or no neurological training

Clear case definition of epileptic seizures and simple algorithms tailored for the local circumstances

Limited access to medication

Guidelines recommending those medications that can be accessed

Indirect costs as a barrier to care-seeking and adherence

Priority for inexpensive affordable drugs delivered as close to the patient's residence as possible

High prevalence of infectious causes

Incorporate into guidelines testing/treating of common conditions such as HIV, neurotuberculosis, and parasitosis. Refer to existing treatment guidelines whenever possible unless comorbid conditions require care that differs from national guidelines