Migraine in Real-World Clinical Practice: Patient Burden, Healthcare Utilization and Unmet Needs-A Cross-Sectional Analysis of the I-GRAINE Study.

Migraine care in Italy shows significant gaps between healthcare resources and patient needs. Many patients see specialists multiple times without resolution. Primary care involvement is limited, which complicates treatment. Patients often seek care from various providers, leading to healthcare nomadism. This means they frequently switch doctors or clinics. The study found that many patients undergo extensive diagnostic testing, especially brain imaging. Emergency department visits are common among migraine sufferers. Patients also experience detoxification cycles, which may indicate medication overuse. Headache centers are accessed repeatedly, reflecting ongoing struggles with migraine management. Overall, this research highlights the substantial burden of migraines on patients. It also underscores the need for better coordination of care and more effective treatment strategies. Addressing these issues could improve patient outcomes and satisfaction with migraine management in Italy. Clinical relevance: This research highlights the need for improved coordination in migraine care, potentially enhancing patient outcomes and satisfaction with treatment approaches.