There are some exciting new opportunities available to the local community to help address the issue of concussions in young athletes. While the new Pennsylvania legislation, effective July 1, 2012, (Act of Nov. 9, 2011, P.L. 411, No. 101) established concussion management standards, education and awareness require ongoing efforts. In 2012, the PA Department of Health (PA DOH) with assistance from the Conemaugh Health System (CHS) identified gaps in the knowledge and the management of traumatic brain injury (TBI) for student athletes. Both are partnering again to extend concussion health outreach and public awareness initiatives.
As a key stakeholder working with youth, you are aware that a concussion is a serious injury with serious consequences. Extending Concussion Health Outreach (ECHO) was designed to assist in all areas of concussion management, from prevention and awareness, to treatment and recovery, enabling your students to be healthy and productive in the academic setting. We look forward to your input and collaboration as we move forward to address this important issue.
Please complete this needs assessment to help future planning and discussion.