Abstract:
The Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) Traumatic Brain Injury Model System (TBIMS) has been an active collaborator in the brain injury model systems program since 1987. Since program inception, VCU has: extended the system of care; developed new partnerships with service providers and advocacy organizations; improved outcome measurement techniques, and explored the development of innovative interventions. Consumer involvement, community based rehabilitation, relevance, and active dissemination to consumer and professional audiences have been cornerstones of program development and implementation. During the next five years, VCU will continue to develop and provide educational programs about brain injury to survivors, family members, and professionals. Information booklets, e-mail list servers, workshops, and conference presentations are some of the methods used for dissemination of research findings and clinical care information. Completing scientifically relevant research is an important mission of the VCU TBIMS program and work is underway to carry out a series of studies. Depression will be the focus of two studies. First, we will work to establish reliable and valid diagnostic criteria. Second, we will evaluate the efficacy of two pharmacological interventions. Family support and research programs have long been a part of VCU's programs. We have developed a structured family support and education program. The program will be evaluated via standardized measures during the next five years. Another research project will evaluate the efficacy of a neurobehavioral intervention program implemented during the course of acute rehabilitation.

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