Introduction | The Brain Injury Association: A Synopsis | HelpSource | General Questions to Ask Any Provider | An Overview of Brain Injury | What are some long-term consequences? | Advocacy, Appeals, and Rights | The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)Advocacy, Appeals, and Rights
This guide is designed to assist persons with brain injury and their families in locating and accessing support systems and services. Ideally, you will be able to find providers who will work with you or loved ones to maximize independence and rehabilitation and increase quality of life. Ultimately, you are the best advocate for yourself and your family. While many people will assist you along the way, you must make the final decisions and do much of the legwork.
Persons with brain injury and their loved ones can expect to achieve the best outcome if they advocate for themselves with the assistance of others. Carle Foundation Hospital, The Brain Injury Association of Illinois, vocational rehabilitation counselors, case managers, discharge planners, educational specialists, and other professionals can assist you in making the decisions that are best for your situation. Always remember that you are your own best advocate. Do not be afraid to ask questions or campaign aggressively to access the services that are available.
You should expect to have basic rights when navigating through the brain injury system. Each medical care facility should have a Patient's Bill of Rights to show you upon request. For example, you should have the right to know about treatment and rehabilitation and educational planning, and the right to access your medical files.
Appeals are an active part of the brain injury rehabilitation process. If you are not satisfied with the decision that a provider has made regarding care, you have the right and responsibility to appeal that decision. While sometimes, your appeal will be denied, at other times you may be able to change the situation. Many persons with brain injury and their families have appealed and won decisions relating to government benefits, educational plans, insurance settlements, and more. Do not feel that you are ìcomplainingî or ìbeing difficultî if you decide to appeal a decision.
Introduction | The Brain Injury Association: A Synopsis | HelpSource | General Questions to Ask Any Provider | An Overview of Brain Injury | What are some long-term consequences? | Advocacy, Appeals, and Rights | The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
