Continuum of care model for managing mild traumatic brain injury in a workers’ compensation context: A description of the model and its development

Abstract

Mild traumatic brain injuries are a significant health problem that can result in distress and disability for people who go on to develop post-concussion syndrome or symptoms. In order to improve healthcare outcomes following a mild traumatic brain injury, the Workers’ Compensation Board of Alberta developed a continuum of care model to assist its staff (e.g. claim adjudication and case management) to manage these claims. A continuum of care model acts as a road map that illustrates typical recovery patterns and treatment best practices, and builds in checkpoints where decisions for assessment and treatment can be made. The model was developed from a review of the research literature selected to determine the best evidence-based practices for treating mild traumatic brain injury, and the most appropriate timing for assessments and treatments. Local and international experts in the field of brain injury assessment and rehabilitation also contributed to the development of the final model.