#33 - Providing Specialized Care

Designing a space that accommodates concussed patients is important if you plan to specialize in concussion or brain injury. A few things to think about include the office lighting, where you will gather patient information, and how you will conduct evaluations. All of these considerations help your patients feel comfortable at a time when they’re not feeling their best.

Here are some tips to create the ideal clinical environment:

1. Lights — Avoid a bright fluorescent atmosphere by dimming or softening the lights. This prevents triggering visual symptoms some of your patients may have.
2. Privacy — Create a quiet space with minimal distractions that allows your patient to feel safe speaking to you one-on-one versus out in the open.
3. Breaks — If you see your patient getting tired, frustrated, or unable to focus, stop and take a break. It may be best to split your evaluation into two parts to allow time for rest post-concussion.
   Prepare patients for how they may feel — After the evaluation your patient’s symptoms may worsen. Let them know this is normal and to take time to regroup instead of scheduling back to back appointments.

Multidisciplinary Team Members

Along with creating a suitable environment, you’ll need a multidisciplinary team with specially trained healthcare professionals. A few members to have on your medical team include athletic trainers, sports medicine physicians, neuropsychologists, psychologists, optometrists, as well as physical and occupational therapists.

To find concussion specialists in your area head to ConcussionCareProviders.com.