Improving Outcomes for Work-Related Concussions: A Mental Health Screening and Brief Therapy Model.
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ABSTRACT: Objective
This study assessed the efficacy of a neurocognitive screening evaluation and brief therapy model to improve RTW outcomes for workers who experienced mild head injuries.Methods
Patients referred were evaluated using a neurocognitive and psychological screening battery. Work-focused cognitive behavioral therapy was provided when appropriate, addressing the role of negative emotional adjustment and functional sleep disturbance in prolonging recovery.Results
Average time to RTW was 7 weeks post-evaluation, despite workers being off an average of 10 months between injury and referral dates. Overall, 99% were released to full-duty work without restrictions or accommodations.Conclusions
This study demonstrates the favorable outcomes achieved via a structured, clinically driven program for workers who experience head-involved injuries, validating previous research on the importance of recognizing the role of psychological factors in prolonging concussion recovery.
SUBMITTER: LeGoff DB
PROVIDER: S-EPMC8478320 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Oct
REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature
Publications
Improving Outcomes for Work-Related Concussions: A Mental Health Screening and Brief Therapy Model.
LeGoff Daniel B DB Wright Roslyn R Lazarovic Jacob J Kofeldt Miranda M Peters Aimee A
Journal of occupational and environmental medicine 20211001 10
<h4>Objective</h4>This study assessed the efficacy of a neurocognitive screening evaluation and brief therapy model to improve RTW outcomes for workers who experienced mild head injuries.<h4>Methods</h4>Patients referred were evaluated using a neurocognitive and psychological screening battery. Work-focused cognitive behavioral therapy was provided when appropriate, addressing the role of negative emotional adjustment and functional sleep disturbance in prolonging recovery.<h4>Results</h4>Averag ...[more]
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