In Ohio, HB 758 addresses these concerns through a comprehensive approach to epilepsy awareness, prevention, and support. The bill would require healthcare providers to educate patients with epilepsy and their caregivers about SUDEP risk and prevention strategies, using guidance developed by the Ohio Department of Health. It also improves public health surveillance by requiring coroners and medical examiners to review epilepsy-related deaths for possible SUDEP, properly document those deaths on death certificates, and report cases to a SUDEP registry. HB 758 establishes an education and referral framework to support continuity of care for individuals with epilepsy and their families. The bill directs the Ohio Department of Health to develop educational awareness initiatives, risk counseling resources, and referrals to appropriate services based on individualized care plans determined by health care providers. Additionally, HB 758 expands access to potentially lifesaving technology by requiring private insurers and Medicaid to cover medically necessary seizure detection devices prescribed by epilepsy specialists. 

The House Community Revitalization Committee will hear the bill on May 12th, and we need your help to move this critical legislation forward! Here's what you can do —

Take Action (2 minutes):

1. Enter your information to be matched to your Ohio House Representative.
2. Send a template message—and add 2–3 sentences about your connection to epilepsy.
3. If prompted the first time you use the system, enter the email verification code to complete account verification.

Personalize Your Message (recommended): Briefly share who you are (person living with epilepsy, caregiver, clinician, advocate), why SUDEP awareness matters to you, and how this bill would help.