The Dravet Syndrome Foundation (DSF) is promoting awareness of the new global health statistics codes now in effect for Dravet syndrome. Known as “ICD-10” codes, the designations could bring about improved patient outcomes and scientific knowledge of this severe type of epilepsy.
The DSF is encouraging those living with the disorder to help spread word of the designations by informing their providers. In coming weeks, the DSF will be mailing Dravet community members packages that will include business cards with the new codes.
The code designation specifically for Dravet, which was created last fall, was due to efforts by the DSF and its medical advisory board, comprised of Dravet specialists. Before that, the disease was lumped in with a broad group of epileptic conditions with different causes and treatment strategies.
The dedicated codes are expected to make it easier for specialists in the field to conduct research, determine prevalence, morbidity and mortality rates, and recruit patients for clinical trials. They also will help scientists and clinicians track treatment outcomes and establish protocols for standard care.