The Epidemic of Brain Injury care is far reaching
The Epidemic of Brain Injury care is far reaching. A recent study shows that brain injury survivors are not cared for. In terms of representing these people’s legal interests, convincing insurance companies and defense lawyers of this reality is imposing. Additionally, the future for these people, as found in the study, makes them victims again.
The report for the State of Virginia reveals what is true in many, if not all states: veterans returning from the war will face difficult hurdles receiving care for brain injuries. To read more about the situation click here.
Here are a few of the findings of the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission study:
The numbers: Up to 6,650 people with brain injuries are in nursing homes, and about 600 others are in state hospitals or in long-term care facilities, including psychiatric units.Available care: Outside of institutionalization, only about 20 beds exist in Virginia to provide the intensive and costly treatment needed for tens of thousands of brain-injury survivors with complex neurobehavioral problems that can result in violent outbursts and other unmanageable behavior. "There is virtually no system of care in the community for people with behavioral problems who do not have the financial resources to pay for private care."
Tragic consequences: Brain-injured people often become homeless after their caregivers die; many end up in jails or seek divorce to qualify for care.
