What is functional neurologic disorder?

The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) defines functional neurologic disorder (FND) as “a neurological condition caused by changes in how brain networks work, rather than changes in the structure of the brain itself, as seen in many other neurological disorders. Physical symptoms of FND are genuine but cannot be explained by changes in the brain structure.”

Furthermore, it explains that “the exact cause of FND is unknown.” Still, symptoms may include “seizure-like episodes, movement problems, problems with cognitive function, [and] pain (including chronic migraine). FND can cause multiple symptoms that significantly interfere with how a person functions and copes with daily life.” These symptoms “may appear suddenly, increase with attention to them, and decrease when the person is distracted.”

How FND affects patients’ lives

According to the Journal of Neurology’s update on the Management of functional neurological disorder, “FND is a heterogeneous disorder, which requires careful assessment, open and holistic discussion of diagnosis and individualized therapy.” 

“Within the USA (population 334.9 million in 2023), at a minimum, there are likely 265,000–480,000 people living with FND, and possibly up to 5 million people,” estimates Neuropsychiatry in a systematic review on the Incidence and prevalence of functional neurological disorder.

“Given that FND appears to be more prevalent than many other well-known and well-funded neurological disorders, incidence and prevalence data suggested here indicate the need for greater research and clinical funding allocation to FND programmes,” the study concluded. 

So, despite the growing prevalence of FND, specialist clinics are rare, which can make accessing coordinated care difficult. HIPAA compliant email provides a secure way for neurologists and care teams to share educational resources, treatment updates, and self-management strategies directly with patients.

How HIPAA compliant emails can help

Increasing awareness and education

Many patients struggle to understand their symptoms or know where to access care. The first study suggests that “as evidence emerges for various treatment options, it becomes more necessary to develop a strategy to allow patients to appropriately access the healthcare system.” 

HIPAA compliant emails can deliver reliable, evidence-based information to patients, caregivers, and the broader community, helping them navigate the complexities of FND. 

For example, HIPAA compliant emails can provide patients with links to reputable sources for further information on their condition, empowering them to make informed decisions about their health. Additionally, these secure emails can facilitate communication between healthcare providers and patients, allowing them to share important information confidentially.

These emails can include digital workbooks and educational materials that provide:

• “An explanation of the patient’s problems”
• “Discussion of triggering factors”
• “Reflection on effective treatments that have been delivered, including strategies that helped normalize symptoms”
• Markers of progress, future goals, and plans to manage setbacks

Ultimately, securely delivering these resources can help patients understand their condition, recognize patterns in symptoms, and participate in self-management strategies, reducing the sense of isolation and confusion that often accompanies FND.

Supporting self-management through secure communication

Patients with FND often require ongoing support to manage chronic symptoms. The first article notes that “for many patients, FND is a chronic condition with multiple contributing factors, and thus ongoing support and follow-up will often be necessary.” 

HIPAA compliant email allows clinicians to provide follow-up guidance, reminders, and updates on treatment strategies, extending care beyond the clinic.

For instance, neurologists can send secure emails detailing home exercises, coping strategies, and symptom tracking tools. These communications reinforce clinical guidance while giving patients control over their own health information in a secure format. Patients can refer back to these emails as needed, promoting autonomy and self-management.

How secure emails improve interdisciplinary care 

Effective FND management often requires an interdisciplinary approach. The Journal of Neurology states, “it seems reasonable to consider a model similar to that of other complex-care clinics, emphasizing an interdisciplinary approach, with each involved discipline offering [its] own expertise in patient care.” This includes neurologists, psychologists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and social workers.

HIPAA compliant emails facilitate secure communication among these specialists, allowing them to coordinate care plans, track patient progress, and share updates without compromising patients’ protected health information (PHI).

In one clinic model, “patients attend a half-day clinic where they are assessed by a movement disorders specialist, psychologist, physical therapist, and social worker, who then together discuss a plan for treatment with the patient.” In this scenario, secure email communication keeps team members aligned while giving patients access to the same information.

Educating families and community providers

Family members and caregivers must help support FND patients. HIPAA compliant email allows neurologists and care teams to provide families with educational resources, helping them understand symptoms, treatment options, and strategies for supporting the patient at home.

The first article also stresses the importance of community-based networks, noting that “most patients will likely attend an FND clinic via general neurology, but a structure should be in place for earlier referral from acute services, including the emergency department and inpatient stroke or neurology services.” 

Secure emails can, therefore, inform community providers about referral pathways, care guidelines, and updates on patient progress, so care is consistent across multiple settings.

Promoting coordinated treatment and follow-up

HIPAA compliant email allows care teams to share treatment plans, symptom tracking, and self-management guidance securely. It can also help ensure that “the full spectrum of [FND] needs is met through a community-based network of accessible, affordable, and quality services and supports.”

More specifically, patients can receive reminders about appointments, follow-up visits, or upcoming therapy sessions. These messages reinforce adherence to care plans while maintaining privacy and confidentiality. It provides clear, timely communication, so neurologists can reduce confusion, increase engagement, and promote better long-term outcomes.

Supporting patients through chronic symptoms

For many patients, FND is not a condition that resolves quickly. Relapses and symptom exacerbations are common, and ongoing support is often necessary. “It must be recognized that for many patients, FND is a chronic condition with multiple contributing factors, and thus ongoing support and follow-up will often be necessary,” the Journal of Neurology adds.

Secure email allows providers to maintain ongoing communication, offering guidance when new symptoms appear, clarifying treatment strategies, and reinforcing self-management practices. The continuous connection can also help patients feel supported and reduce the stress and uncertainty often associated with chronic neurological conditions.

Reducing stigma 

FND demands sensitive, validating communication. When providers frame the diagnosis clearly, patients are more likely to engage with treatment and feel that their symptoms are taken seriously.

HIPAA compliant email allows providers to securely follow up diagnostic discussions, strengthening this approach. A neurologist, for example, can send written explanations or educational resources that reinforce what was said in the appointment. These emails can support understanding, reduce confusion, and show patients that their condition is legitimate and recognized.

Sometimes, treatment may not bring improvement. The first article notes, “If a treatment plan is failing to provide benefit to a patient, it is reasonable to discontinue this approach. In this difficult situation, it is necessary to have a frank discussion with patients about the rationale for discontinuing active therapy, emphasizing that this may allow patients more time to spend on meaningful activities.” 

Secure email allows these brief discussions to continue between visits, so patients still feel supported when therapy goals shift from recovery to quality of life. The review also suggests that providers should look beyond direct treatment, stating, “Neurologists can provide patients with support in other ways, advocating for their access to social services, mobility aids, and environmental adaptations, thus promoting quality of life, while ensuring patient safety.” 

With HIPAA compliant communication, neurologists and other team members can coordinate these resources confidentially, keeping patients and caregivers informed while protecting their privacy.

FND care also often involves multiple disciplines. For example, “Physiotherapists may equip patients with appropriate mobility aids, and occupational therapists may aid in home adaptations,” the article notes. 

Secure email allows care teams to share updates and coordinate support immediately, reducing miscommunication, so patients receive cohesive, stigma-free care.

Building long-term trust

The Journal of Neurology states that “for many patients, FND is a chronic condition with multiple contributing factors, and thus ongoing support and follow-up will often be necessary.” 

HIPAA compliant email provides a secure channel for long-term follow-up, allowing providers to check in during relapses or exacerbations, and giving patients easy access to care when needed.

Consequently, patients receive consistent signals that their symptoms are taken seriously, and their care team remains engaged. Reliable and respectful communication can help build patient trust, helping them manage a complex and often misunderstood condition.

Related: How HIPAA compliance improves patient trust

FAQs

What are HIPAA compliant emails?

HIPAA compliant emailing platforms, like Paubox, use advanced encryption and other security measures to safeguard patients’ protected health information (PHI) during transmission and at rest, mitigating the risk of potential data breaches.

Do HIPAA compliant emails improve patient care?

Yes, HIPAA compliant emails improve the accuracy, security, and reliability of patient communication, helping providers deliver better and safer patient care.

Can AI be integrated into HIPAA compliant emails?

Yes, AI-powered features can be integrated with HIPAA compliant emailing platforms, like Paubox, to send personalized emails while maintaining HIPAA compliance.