WINTER2015
29
where to go. Your facility can be a valuable
resource for them.
Some facilities already have partnerships
with local hospitals and clinics. Concussion
awareness, including prevention and care, can
become a part of that relationship.
The Brain Injury Association of America has
affiliates in each state and provides support,
information and resources for people living
with brain injuries.
According to the BIAA,
[I]ndividuals who sustain traumatic brain
injuries rarely have access to rehabilitation
of sufficient timing, scope, duration, and
intensity that would allow them to recover
to the maximum extent possible. That's
because treatment decisions are controlled
by payers–insurance companies and
public policymakers–instead of by doctors,
patients and family caregivers. When a
person's care is delayed, discontinued,
or denied altogether, the result is often
increased re-hospitalization rates and
greater levels of disability.
It is vitally important that athletes have
access to the proper care. Facilities that
build relationships with clinics and treatment
centers specializing in concussions can o
ffer information on how to obtain such care,
further demonstrating support for the health
and safety of their customers.
Roy Kessel is the Co-Founder of Sports
Brain, a national company which focuses on
concussion education, testing and consulting.
He can be reached at at 855-32-BRAIN
(322-7246) or Roy@SportsBrain.com.
