Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are common from car crashes and falls. A TBI can be hard to detect and may cause long term symptoms or concerns. For this reason, it is important to look for signs of a brain injury after suffering a blow to the head. Those experiencing a traumatic brain injury often experience re-hospitalization more frequently.
Statistics
A 2010 study on individuals with traumatic brain injuries found a 36 percent re-hospitalization rate during the 3-year follow-up period. About half of the hospitalizations were elective and half were not. In the study, elective re-hospitalizations were frequently for reconstructive surgery, general health maintenance, or surgery. Non-elective re-hospitalizations were most frequently for seizures and mental health problems.
According to the research, rates of re-hospitalization are not attributed to individual recoveries or payer sources. However, one thing to consider from the study is the cost of re-hospitalization should be taken into account when assessing costs of a traumatic brain injury over time.
Car Crash Victims
The good news is those suffering a TBI following a car crash are less likely to experience elective rehospitalizaiton. The reason is victims of a car crash receive a discharge with support services. People experiencing TBIs following other events often do not receive the same after care as car crash victims.
Individuals may sustain a traumatic brain injury in a number of different ways. It is important to keep a close eye on symptoms and mention hitting your head during hospitalizations for the 3-years following the initial blow.
An individual suffering a traumatic brain injury in an accident may wish to work with an attorney to hold the responsible party liable.
The Merdes Law Firm has been helping injured Alaskans for more than 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us … We’re here if you do. ~ Ward Merdes
Source: NRI, “Hospitalization Readmission Rates Following TBI May Be Higher Than Previously Reported”
