MEDICALERT
A person with epilepsy should wear a medical-alert bracelet or
necklace that gives critical information in order to medically
treat a student correctly. The MedicAlert emblem is engraved
with important information such as: diagnosis, medications, telephone
numbers of the doctor, and the person to call in case of an emergency.
It can help avoid costly medical bills and unnecessary actions.
The MedicAlert organization may be contacted at www.medicalert.org or (888) 633-4298. See insert provided
HELMETS
Some students with epilepsy need to wear a helmet to provide protection
from falling due to seizures. Bicycle helmets do not provide
the best protection for students with seizures. A helmet should
be chosen by observation of seizure behaviors. A student who
tends to fall forward during seizures will need a helmet with
a face guard, face bar, or visor. A student that falls backward
will need occipital protection. The helmet is most effective
if it is secure on the head with a snug chin strap. Hockey helmets
made by Cooper give good protection. Helmets are available through
sporting good stores, medical supply companies, and the rehabilitation
departments of some hospitals.
DRIVING
Medication compliance is crucial, especially for teenagers desiring
to get their driving licenses. Typically, students must be seizure
free for one year before they will be granted a driving license.
In California a “mandatory reporting law” requires
physicians to report people who have epilepsy to the DMV and their
frequency of seizures. A student with epilepsy who has a motor
vehicle accident may be civilly or criminally liable. In addition,
doctors may be held responsible if they failed to notify the DMV
of the medical condition.
EMPLOYMENT AND THE LAW
Gainful employment provides a powerful source of self esteem and
can increase quality of life. Employers may discriminate against
those with epilepsy for a variety of reasons. The Americans with
Disabilities Act (ADA) passed in 1990 to help protect people
with certain disabilities from discrimination when applying for
a job or while on the job. Students with epilepsy who are considering
a part time job should be encouraged to contact Epilepsy Foundation
(www.efa.org). They can provide valuable information to those
with epilepsy
Our Mission: To Nurture, Advance and Protect the Health and Well-Being of Children
