Our new Long-Term Monitoring Unit is here to help epilepsy patients round-the-clock.

Determining the origins of epilepsy is a tricky business. Sometimes, the cause is genetic; it just runs in the family. Other times, epilepsy is “acquired”—perhaps there was a stroke or head injury, and epilepsy developed as a result. And, according to the National Institute of Neurological Issues and Stroke, about half of people living with epilepsy do not know the cause at all.
Neurological exams, initial imaging tests, blood work, and EEGs (electroencephalograms, which record brain waves) are all used to diagnose epilepsy and monitor seizures.

But many of these methods can be inconclusive, with outpatient EEGs capturing abnormal brain wave activity only about half the time. In contrast, long-term monitoring captures that information in about 80%–85% of patients. This leads to better data for epileptologists, allowing them to develop more tailored treatment plans.

So why doesn’t everyone undergo long-term monitoring? The answers vary. Some respond well to other exams and medications, while others face barriers such as the neurologist shortage in Utah or long wait times.

Our dedicated Long-Term Epilepsy Monitoring Unit was created to fill this critical gap in care. Opened earlier this year in the Neilsen Rehabilitation Center, the unit is staffed 24/7 with experienced technologists and equipped with state-of-the-art monitoring facilities. As the first long-term monitoring unit in the Mountain West, it has always been our mission to provide the highest level of care to our patients. With increased capacity, we are proud to be the largest such facility in the region.

“Having a designated space is life-changing for our patients, our doctors, and us as techs,” said Alise Payne, a supervisor for the unit. “We have these promises that we can fulfill now . . . we’re able to take care of patients in a timely manner. They don’t have to wait for us.”

The unit has already made a difference, especially with patients who are having a hard time with medications. During a stay at the unit, patients are safely taken off their medications and closely monitored; with the new data collected, their care team can determine what’s working and what’s not. With the right treatment plan, people with epilepsy can drive again, or even become seizure-free. In some cases, they even wean off medication.

“We want our patients to be independent,” said Payne.

Take the first step toward better epilepsy care today. Whether you’re seeking a diagnosis, exploring treatment options, or simply learning more, our team is here to help. Contact us to learn how the Long-Term Epilepsy Monitoring Unit can support your journey to improved health and peace of mind.