I have decided to try and write a paper about technology and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). More specifically, how technology, is aiding and assisting patients suffering from TBI. I know that it isn't just people in the military who have been affected by TBI, but according to the Department of Defense (DOD), since 2000, there has been over 195,000 documented cases of TBI.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), it is estimated that 1,700,000 patients suffer from TBI. Of those numbers, 52,000 patients die from TBI, and over 1,300,000 patients are treated and released from emergency rooms across the country. As you can see, this is a serious injury, and one that can certainly and hopefully benefit from technology.
I am going to research and read into the types of the technology that is currently being used and what is the future of technology in aiding and assisting those who are affected by TBI. The CDC further estimates that the direct and indirect costs to America are estimated at 60 billion dollars. This is not only an expensive and devasting injury, but one that I hope one day we can not only mitigate the effects of, but hopefully prevent.
http://www.dvbic.org/TBI-Numbers.aspx
Interesting topic that people do not know a lot about. I have observed that at my local VA, there has been a creation or revamping of the TBI department that at least 2 years ago, used the medical staff as well as a social worker. I am interested in the use of technology in the treatment of TBI. Good topic.
ReplyDeleteAs a retired Airman (22 years), I am very interested in the topic you have chosen. To think that technology may actually provide some relief to our injured soldiers, along with others who have suffered brain injuries, is very encouraging. I look forward to following your progress. Good Luck.
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