Healthcare Provider Perspectives on Pediatric Concussion: The Importance of Formalized Systems of Communication Across Settings

by myneuronews April 21, 2025

written by myneuronews April 21, 2025

J Sch Health. 2025 Apr 21. doi: 10.1111/josh.70010. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Healthcare providers play a critical role in the return to school (RTS) process after a child sustains a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). The purpose of this study was to examine healthcare providers’ perspectives on effective communication with school personnel and gaps within those practices, using a qualitative approach.

METHODS: Twelve community-based healthcare providers in suburban Oregon and Ohio completed semi-structured interviews between February 2021 and July 2021 via Zoom. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis.

RESULTS: Primary themes centered on how breakdowns in communication between healthcare and education systems occur easily without formalized systems, and how formalized systems of care are beneficial.

CONCLUSIONS: Children with mTBI benefit when there is (1) a consistent communication system between school-based staff, caregivers, and healthcare providers and (2) a clear point person in the school system.

IMPLICATIONS FOR SCHOOL HEALTH POLICY, PRACTICE, AND EQUITY: Schools should create intentional and formalized communication pathways with healthcare providers as an effective approach to meeting the needs of students and their families.

PMID:40259446 | DOI:10.1111/josh.70010

myneuronews

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