Referral patterns for pediatric resective epilepsy surgery in a publicly funded healthcare system

Prolonged durations of epilepsy before surgical referral are linked to epilepsy severity and pre-referral MRI findings. In Finland, referral intervals are consistent across regions despite long travel distances. Overall, epilepsy treatment is efficient nationwide, with relatively short and equal referral intervals. Epileptologist outreach consultations should be considered to facilitate earlier identification of surgical candidates and reduce referral delays.