Delivering a Specialised Best Practice Service for People with Functional Neurological Disorder: An Australian Qualitative Descriptive Study

Abstract

Specialised functional neurological disorder (FND) clinics are emerging as the preferred way of providing best practice care to people with FND. However, questions remain around optimal care pathways, service provision, and resources. This study aimed to identify (1) service characteristics of Australian FND models of care; (2) barriers and enablers to implementing a specialised FND service; and (3) enablers and barriers to providing best practice management for people living with FND. Clinicians were recruited from Australian public and private healthcare organisations identified as leading best practice for adults with FND. Clinicians completed a structured interview via phone. A descriptive content analysis was used. Five out of 12 healthcare organisations interviewed had a specialised multidisciplinary FND service. All specialised FND services were outpatient programs, but the structure and referral pathways varied. Barriers identified by organisations with an FND service included “funding” and “staff and service fragility,” while enablers included “engaging stakeholders” and having a clear “service driver.” “Diagnosis delay” and “insufficient access to staff” were identified as barriers to implementing best practice by organisations without a specialised FND service. Despite specialised clinics being recognised as a practical way to deliver care to people with FND, only a few services operate in Australia. Timely and educated diagnosis and access to an interdisciplinary team consisting of neurology, physiotherapy, and psychology are central pillars for FND services. Further work to establish clinically and economically effective delivery models is required to facilitate the provision of best practice care for people living with FND.