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IntroductionWhen General Practitioners (GPs) refer patients with headache to neurologists, it is often because the patient and/or doctor want imaging. Some GPs now access Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) directly. We aimed to describe patients’ experience of GPs using direct access, compared to patients who saw a specialist first.MethodsWe invited participants to semi-structured Interviews about two months after imaging. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analysed using thematic analysis in Nvivo.ResultsWe interviewed 10 patients from each pathway in South London, eleven women, median age 41, range 20–72. We found more similarities than differences between groups. Ten said they received a clear scan result explanation, while six had difficulty understanding results. Eleven participants felt relief once results were received, while five still wanted an answer on the underlying cause for symptoms. Seven felt the specialist appointment wait time was long. Those using the direct-access pathway were more likely to report MRI results delay.ConclusionPatient reassurance was linked closely with results receipt and worry linked with wait times. Some felt MRI results did not provide sufficient explanation for symptoms. Improvement in both pathways can be achieved, providing results are delivered in a clear, timely manner.

Introduction‘Invisible’ conditions like migraine may leave individuals seeking support and information. We aimed to describe how people with migraines use and benefit from social media and to identify harms of social media use.MethodsTwenty participants were recruited via migraine charities. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with questions based on a topic guide. Interviews were transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis.ResultsWe found people with migraine use social media to better understand their condition and treatment options. It offers instant access to continuous information and social support from empathic others. Participants viewed social media as an outlet to vent frustrations and to validate their migraine experience. They referred to the invisible and episodic nature of migraine which contributes to misunderstanding of the impact and/or severity of the condition. Some masked their online migraine-related behaviour, using different sites or closed online groups, which sometimes changed their online behaviour in other areas. Harms of social media included inaccuracy of information, occasional negativity, and privacy issues.ConclusionsSocial media can provide people who experience migraines with instant, continuous access to social support and health information, from empathic others. This can validate their illness experience, reassure and help to reduce feelings of isolation.

BackgroundThere is little evidence on how people with epilepsy (PWE) use web-based media in self-management of their condition. This study focused on the benefits/risks for PWE using social networking sites and web-based media.MethodsWe recruited 14 PWE who had volunteered after seeing information provided by Epilepsy Action, UK. We asked open-ended questions about online media use. Interviews lasted 60–90 min. Sessions were recorded, transcribed, and thematically analysed using Nvivo.ResultsSeven men and seven women participated, age range: 33–73, average diagnosis length was 25 years. Twelve participants used web-based media to gather information about their epilepsy. Seven used apps to manage their epilepsy by logging seizures or medication reminders. Six participants were hesitant to use web-based media due to privacy concerns. Four participants felt that epilepsy was underrepresented or misrepresented online. Three participants preferred traditional sources of epilepsy-related information.DiscussionResults show the value of web-based media in providing information and support to PWE, with the caveat that concerns around privacy and disclosure can undermine potential benefits. Health service providers and advocacy groups can assist by ensuring online information is accurate and up-to-date. Further research may help in developing understanding and future services.