MEDICAL MOMENT: BASELINE COGNITIVE TESTING

01 Dec MEDICAL MOMENT: BASELINE COGNITIVE TESTING

Telluride Inside… and Out is proud to feature the Telluride Medical Center’s MEDICAL MOMENT, a weekly column that answers common medical questions in pop culture. Have a question for the doctors? Click here to send.

Laura Cattell, PA-C

Laura A. Cattell, PA-C answer this week’s question:

WHAT IS BASELINE COGNITIVE TESTING AND WHO SHOULD BE TESTED?

The Telluride Medical Center’s new Think Head First comprehensive and cutting edge concussion protocol utilizes ImPACT Neuro-psychological testing software as one of the tools used for assessing and determining when it is appropriate to return to sport safely after a head injury.

Laura Cattell, PA-C, heads the program and serves as the Med Center’s resident concussion expert.

ImPACT software is cutting edge and allows for testing to measure baseline cognitive function to be used to evaluate a patient if they’re suspected of a concussion.

Establishing a baseline test yields a benchmark for cognitive functions such as verbal and visual memory, processing speed, reaction time and ability to focus and concentrate. Concussive injury affects these functions of the brain, which with normal clinical exams and imaging are not readily apparent. Thus, the baseline ImPACT results add the clinical ability to evaluate function and as such, should provide an added tool in managing the recovery process.

Think Head First also includes concussion management. Through the program, Cattell offers coach and parent education, athlete baseline testing and education, post-injury on-site coach support and remote testing, medical and clinical evaluation and follow up, and a multidisciplinary individual return-to-sport plan.

Who Should Be Tested?

Anyone age 10 through 65 can make an appointment with the Telluride Medical Center to have a baseline test administered. Avid outdoor enthusiasts and students (especially student athletes) are among those who Cattell recommends to make an appointment for a baseline test.

Learn more about the Med Center’s new comprehensive and cutting edge concussion protocol or call the Med Center to schedule a baseline test for you or your student athlete today.

Editor’s note: The Telluride Medical Center is the only 24-hour emergency facility within 65 miles. You can choose your own medical provider visit with a specialist or take advantage of their Mountain Skin Care services. As a mountain town in a challenging, remote environment, a thriving medical center is vital to our community’s health. For more Medical Moments on TIO, Click Here.