Gabrielle Giffords's office looks to expand brain-injury coverage

[cal04]

Source: The Hill

The office of the Arizona congresswoman who was shot in the head is spearheading an effort to require more insurers to cover traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Staffers for Rep. Gabrielle Giffords (D-Ariz.) are trying to gain support for making TBI coverage part of the “essential health benefit” package that all insurers must offer by 2014 in order to participate in new state-run health exchanges created by the healthcare reform law.

The staffers and advocates say most Americans lack the same level of care that Giffords has received since she was shot in the head at point-blank range during a January tragedy that killed six people and wounded 11 others.

“We want everybody to get the care our buddy Gabby is getting,” said Rep. Bill Pascrell (D-N.J.) during a Thursday press conference.

Read more: http://thehill.com/blogs/healthwatch/health-reform-implementation/154675-giffords-office-looks-to-expand-brain-injury-coverage

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Letter to Congress at link

[Wilms]

1. Perhaps start with improving care for our troops with brain injuries...

http://www.newsobserver.com/2010/05/23/495873/va-slow-handling-brain-injuries.html

[eggplant]

2. Spearheading is an ironically inappropriate word choice. n/t

[DollyM]

3. out of tragedy there can come something good . . .

eom

[russspeakeasy]

4. Good for her. She sounds like a fine lady. My question is; why

does it have to happen to them, before they think it's a good
idea? Just asking. My best wishes to her and her family.

[annm4peace]

5. Could we also test those in jails and prisons too

Many in prisons and jails have or have had brain injuries. Many who have undiagnosed injuries are impulsive, agitated, and have other negative behaviors. Some trying medicate with drugs.


I know, it won't happen. there is hardly an money for those with mental illness.... so hoping for brain injury treatment for the very poor or those in prison/jails is very far off wish

[uppityperson]

6. Good. Yes, most of us lack that same level of care. I only had a concussion but

stayed home propped up in my recliner while I healed. No ability to afford rehab beyond what I could do or talk friends into. For all those coming home from Iraq/Afghanistan who have TBI's, this will be great.

[Downwinder]

7. The same therapies should be effective for stroke and MS.