The ongoing goal of this project is to identify service gaps and trends related to traumatic brain injury (TBI) in Washington State.
In 2021 and 2022, CBIRT worked closely with Washington DSHS and the Washington TBI Council to develop and distribute three online surveys targeting the following groups: individuals with TBI, caregivers of individuals with TBI, and providers serving individuals with TBI. The goal was to better understand lived experiences of individuals with TBI in Washington state, particularly as it relates to accessing services and support and to develop relevant recommendations and solutions.
Responses were received from every county in Washington State. Of the 765 individuals who completed the survey, 437 had lived experience of TBI, 184 were caregivers, and 144 were service providers. One of the limitations in the survey was the underrepresentation of some groups, such as K-12 students, Tribal communities, and people living in long-term care facilities. We are now in the process of conducting focus groups or one-on-one interviews with members of these communities.
Through this expanded outreach, this project aims to ensure that the voices of all those affected by TBI in Washington are represented, ultimately leading to more equitable and comprehensive recommendations for improving services and support statewide.