Delayed Access Is a Migraine Risk Factor: Precision Triage as the Missing Link in Modern Headache Care.

Migraine care has advanced in precision, yet many patient pathways remain confusing. Many patients face delays in diagnosis and experience underestimated disability. This leads to increased acute medication use. Delayed access is not just an administrative issue; it is a modifiable risk factor. This risk factor may lead to migraine progression and increased disability. The paper suggests using precision triage as a solution. This involves linking headache classification with burden assessment and medication-overuse risk. It emphasizes timely referrals and effective use of digital health tools. A shift is necessary from disconnected visits to a pathway-based model. This model focuses on identifying patient needs and urgency. Such changes could help translate existing knowledge into more effective migraine care. Ultimately, better care could lead to quicker, fairer treatment options for patients. Improving the system could reduce suffering and enhance quality of life for many people. Clinical relevance: This research highlights the importance of timely access to migraine care to improve patient outcomes and reduce disability.