RD107 - Report on the Methods to Improve Data Capture on the Annual Incidence of Brain Injury


Executive Summary:
HB 30, Item 310. M passed by the 2016 General Assembly, states: “The Department of Medical Assistance Services, in collaboration with the departments of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services and Health, shall convene a work group with community stakeholders to: (i) recommend methods to improve data capture on the annual incidence of brain injury as defined in the Code of Virginia, and (ii) review expenditure data on Virginians with brain injury receiving care outside the state, and evaluate options for providing their care in the Commonwealth. The department shall report on efforts of the work group and any recommendations to the Chairmen of the House Appropriations and Senate Finance Committees by December 1, 2016.”

The Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS) convened a technical work group to address the specific study mandates. State agencies represented on the work group included the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS), the Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS) and the Virginia Department of Health (VDH). To ensure representation of community stakeholders, a representative from the Brain Injury Association of Virginia (BIAV) attended each meeting. As the Joint Commission on Health Care (JCHC) was conducting a broader study, staff from the JCHC participated in the work group discussions.