Epilepsy and Seizure Disorder Care

Epilepsy can bring seizures that occur without warning. Experts at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health provide comprehensive services for common and complex forms of epilepsy.

We provide testing and treatments from neurologists who use research-based methods. Some doctors completed advanced epilepsy training through fellowships (epileptologists). We promptly confirm or rule out an epilepsy diagnosis. Then we tailor therapies and additional services that bring healing. Meet our team.

Highlights of our program include: 

• Evaluation: Our epilepsy and seizure specialists consider every possible cause for seizure disorder symptoms, including other medical conditions. Evaluations often include electroencephalograms (EEGs) and other tests. We offer a broad range of options that enable us to confirm or rule out epilepsy with confidence. 

• Personalized treatment: Our team is highly experienced in epilepsy medication management. We recommend the options that are right for your diagnosis and adjust the dose to help you achieve positive outcomes. Epilepsy specialists work with a clinical pharmacist as necessary to optimize treatment response while limiting unpleasant side effects.  

• Advanced therapies: We frequently see patients with difficult-to-treat seizure disorders that do not respond to standard therapies. If medications are not successful, you may be eligible for a vagus nerve stimulator. 

• Support services: We provide family-focused guidance so that you feel prepared for future seizure activity. If you have questions between appointments, we are easy to reach. You may also benefit from practical assistance and emotional support from our social workers. 

Epilepsy typically doesn’t exist in isolation. Many patients have additional medical concerns that increase their risk for epilepsy or are complications of it. 

We work with other specialists to coordinate services responsive to your needs. Efforts may include selecting specific epilepsy medications that do not interact with ones you are already taking. We also collaborate with maternity care providers for epilepsy patients who become pregnant.

We see new patients quickly – especially if you’ve recently experienced your first seizure. After an assessment, we arrange testing, such as an EEG and brain imaging. 

When testing is complete, we develop a personalized treatment plan. It may include:

• Epilepsy medications
• Referrals to other specialists
• Lifestyle recommendations 

Our epilepsy specialists maintain lasting relationships with patients through ongoing care. We periodically check you to assess treatment response and adjust medications or dosages as necessary.

Our specialists care for patients across the Puget Sound area and beyond. Find a neurologist near you.