Who Aids in Rehabilitation after a Traumatic Brain Injury?
Traumatic brain injuries can result in life-long impairments in cognitive, physical, behavioral, and even social function. It is common for victims of serious traumatic brain injuries to never fully recover from their devastating symptoms. With proper diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation, however, it may be possible to improve a brain injury victim’s quality of life and help him or her recoup at least some of their physical and mental abilities.
Rehabilitation following a traumatic brain injury is most effective when approached in an interdisciplinary manner. The list of medical professional who aid in rehabilitation and their respective responsibilities include:
- Physiatrist: Responsible for providing rehabilitation management and physical medicine.
- Nurse: Coordinating everyday patient care.
- Physical therapist: Focusing treatment on mobility including ambulation and balance.
- Speech-language pathologist: Evaluate and treat communication, cognition, hearing deficits, and swallowing disorders.
- Occupational therapist: Assisting the patient to regain the ability to function at work.
- Respiratory therapist: Evaluating and treating a patient’s breathing.
- Neuropsychologist: Providing support to the patient and the patient’s family as they deal with issues related to disabilities.
- Therapeutic recreation: Assisting the patient in reentering his or her community and enjoying leisure activities.
- Case manager: Coordinating the implementation of treatment plan. A case manager can also communicate to the family issues related to insurance benefits.
Rehabilitation after a traumatic brain injury can cost millions of dollars. Unfortunately, few health insurance providers cover all of the expenses related to traumatic brain injuries. In fact, a number of rehabilitation costs end up being paid out-of-pocket for many patients and their families. If you or a loved one has suffered a head injury because of the negligence or wrongdoing of another, please make sure you contact an experienced personal injury lawyer in Oklahoma to discuss pursuing compensation for your significant losses.