Integrated headache care

Abstract

Patients with chronic or difficult to treat headaches are generally under the care of general practictioners or neurologists in private practice. Some are referred to a headache specialist for evaluation and advice. Treatment is often provided by the referring physician. An alternative is a multidisciplinary headache centre, where care is provided by different disciplines (neurology, behavioural psychology, psychiatry, psychosomatic medicine, physical therapy, sport therapy) across sectors of the healthcare system involving out- and inpatient care and treatment. This is called integrated headache care. This review summarizes experiences in integrated headache care settings in Europe and the USA, describes these settings, and reports outcome data.