Telerehabilitation for Veterans with Combat Related TBI/PTSD
Abstract
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Post Traumatic Stress Disorders (PTSD) are signature wounds related to combat and accidents in combat theatres in Iraq and Afghanistan (OIF/OEF). They can result in life-long impairments in physical, cognitive, behavioural and social function. Objectives: The ongoing telerehabilitation at the James Haley Veterans Administration (VA) Hospital at Tampa, Florida (Tampa VA) continues and expands the existing rehabilitation program in place for veterans discharged from the hospital with combat related trauma. The primary objectives of this 36 month quasi-experimental study is to 1) Provide medical care coordination to meet the needs of OIF/OEF veterans with combat injuries. 2) Determine the immediate and sustained effects of telerehabilitation on patient outcomes including function, cognition and community participation and 3) To examine the perceived benefits and limitations of the intervention from the veteran and caregiver perspectives. Study design: This 36 month study started in June 2008 and evaluates telerehabilitation care provided to a sample of 65 OIF/OEF veterans discharged from the Tampa VA with a diagnosis of mild or moderate TBI and or PTSD incurred in combat zones. Telerehabilitation involves using computers and the internet to provide therapy and monitor health outcomes. Methods: Data is collected in multiple ways including 1) administrative data bases and 2) validated instruments to monitor health outcomes. In addition, patient satisfaction surveys and interviews with patients and caregivers are conducted after a year of enrolment in the study.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 2011
- Accession Number
- ADA582837
Entities
People
- James A. Haley
- Kris Siddharthan