There are 38 states who have received HRSA funded TBI Demonstration Grants. Although individuals with traumatic brain injury and their families enjoy protection and entitlement under a number of Federal laws, they continue to be one of the most underserved groups among person with disabilities. Individuals with traumatic brain injury often find themselves without the services vital to their survival such as those services available under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security, Vocational Rehabilitation and the Americans with Disabilities Act. As a result, they may be unnecessarily unemployed or underemployed, or lack appropriate educational and training opportunities that may prevent full access to the community. Due to the aforementioned problems that individuals with traumatic brain injury face, BIA recommends that individuals with traumatic brain injury have the benefit of the state Protection and Advocacy services.
More research needs to be done using applied research.
Extensive research is needed regarding lifelong issues for children with TBI and their families. BIA urges this Congress to reauthorize the TBI Act and include the aforementioned critical priorities in its appropriations.