Mild traumatic brain injury
Mild TBI will be managed according to NSW Health policy document: PR2012_013 Closed Head Injury in Adults and the associated Institute of Trauma Injury Management guidelines Initial Management of Closed Head Injuries in Adults, edition 2.42,49 In some LHDs clinics have been established to assess and respond to the needs of people with mild TBI with persisting symptoms.
Referrals not accepted
When referrals are not accepted, the referring person and the person who is the subject of the referral is informed of the decision. Suggestions as to other service providers will be provided whenever possible.
Co-morbidities note
Co-morbidities (mental health, drug and alcohol, medical issues) can impact on a client’s ability to engage in rehabilitation and identify goals. In situations where the co-morbidity is an overriding issue impacting on the ability of the client to engage in the specialised brain injury rehabilitation process, the client is assessed to not be able to engage (have ability to actively participate) and the referral will not be accepted. These referrals will be directed to more appropriate services.
A referral back to the BIRP can be initiated once the co-morbidity is managed and the client is able to engage in the rehabilitation process. Shared care may be an option for these clients.
Service access
Clients are eligible for BIRP service regardless of their living circumstances. People who reside in a residential aged care facility or disability accommodation services may be accepted into the program using the above guidelines, that is the ability to meet the essential criteria, and prioritised in accordance with the above guidelines. A consultative model of care may be offered according to factors such as the level of support available to the client to assist in the implementation of a program and the client’s access to other allied health services, resources and support to achieve goals identified by the client.
Transitional living programs
While these guidelines apply to the admission of clients to the Transitional living programs (TLP) setting of care, there will be additional considerations for level of support needs, risk and local organisational guidelines to assist in determining whether a client can be safely accommodated in a centre-based or home-based TLP.