Maine Medical Center, Sports Medicine, Portland, ME 04102, USA. pleacherm@hotmail.com
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To assess current concussion management practices of primary care providers.
METHODS: An 11 item questionnaire was mailed to primary care providers in the state of Maine, with serial mailings to non-respondents.
RESULTS: Over 50% of the questionnaires were completed, with nearly 70% of primary care providers indicating that they routinely use published guidelines as a tool in managing patients with concussion. Nearly two thirds of providers were aware that neuropsychological tests could be used, but only 16% had access to such tests within a week of injury.
CONCLUSIONS: Primary care providers are using published concussion management guidelines with high frequency, but many are unable to access neuropsychological testing when it is required.