Affiliations: NeuroInternational Healthcare, LLC, 1876 Barber Rd, Building A, Sarasota, FL 34240, USA. Tel.: +1 (813) 401 6728; E-mail: [email protected]
Abstract: BACKGROUND:Traumatic brain injury (TBI) remains a silent and global epidemic which creates an aftermath of convoluted dynamics. Despite significant incidence rates and increasing awareness over the long-term catastrophic implications, there remain marked contrasts between acute vs. post-acute rehabilitation processes in the United States. OBJECTIVE:To explore existing research and highlight the complexity of TBIs to inform vital changes needed to reduce the significant differences and inconsistencies across post-acute treatment settings. To highlight how psychologists/neuropsychologists and other rehabilitation professionals maintain a prominent operational presence in post-acute settings resulting in key leadership opportunities to support a more efficient longitudinal continuation of care model. METHODS:Literature search of various health science databases was completed for articles between 1987 to 2019 to explore the range and depth of post-acute treatment, model, and outcomes research. RESULTS:Despite progressive medical advancements, translation of relevant rehabilitation research and practices into post-acute treatment settings remains inconsistent. CONCLUSIONS:Significant barriers remain for objective and comprehensive evaluation(s) of post-acute program quality and purported patient outcomes in the United States. There remains a lack of consensually relevant and objective metrics. Further investigation is recommended for: consensus on longitudinal post-acute brain injury outcome measures; functional relevance of program accreditations/certifications; outcome differences based on team composition and program resources; and patient/stakeholder variables/input to support optimal post-acute service access and delivery.
