More than 5 million Americans—one in every 60 people—are living with a permanent traumatic brain injury (TBI). While no two brain injuries are the same, many people with a TBI can live successfully in our local communities with the right care and supports.
What is a traumatic brain injury (TBI)?
A TBI is an injury to the brain caused by an outside force. A blow or jolt to the head or body can cause a TBI. It can also be caused by an object entering the brain.
Common causes of TBI include falls, motor vehicle crashes, and violence. A sports injury can cause a TBI. A mild TBI may cause only temporary symptoms, but a more serious injury can lead to permanent disability.
What TBI services are available through Vaya Health?
Vaya offers services to help people with a TBI be healthy and live as independently as possible. Depending on your health plan and your needs, you may be eligible for the services below.
To learn more, call Vaya’s Member and Recipient Service Line at 1-800-962-9003.
State-Funded Services:
- Residential Supports
- Day Supports
- Community Living and Support
- Supported Living Periodic
- Supported Employment
- Respite
- TBI Long-term Residential Rehabilitation Services
Note that State-funded services are not an entitlement and depend on available funding.
Medicaid Waiver Services:
North Carolina’s TBI Waiver provides services in the community to help with recovery. TBI Waiver services promote choice, independence and community involvement. Please note the TBI Waiver is not yet available in the Vaya region.
People who get a TBI before age 22 may qualify for the NC Innovations Waiver. The Innovations Waiver offers limited slots that allow people with an intellectual/developmental disability to get services and supports in the community. If you or a loved one may qualify for the Innovations Waiver, call Vaya’s Member and Recipient Service Line at 1-800-962-9003. You can ask to be added to the Innovations Waitlist.
Additional Services:
If you have a TBI and other health needs, such as a mental health or substance use disorder, you may be eligible for services for those conditions. Also, Vaya Tailored Plan (Vaya Total Care) Medicaid members may be eligible for services for related physical health needs.
Call the Member and Recipient Service Line at 1-800-962-9003 for more information.
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) symptoms
Physical symptoms of TBI
- Headache
- Convulsions or seizures
- Vision problems
- Nausea and vomiting
- Neurological problems, like slurred speech or loss of balance
Cognitive symptoms of TBI
- Loss of or change in consciousness
- Confusion or disorientation
- Problems remembering, concentrating, or making decisions
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Frustration, irritability, and depression
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) treatments
Treatments for a TBI include:
- Physical and occupational therapy
- Speech therapy
- Counseling and psychotherapy
- Medications
- Surgeries, if needed
An early treatment plan can:
- Reduce the risk of long-term complications
- Speed up recovery and healing
- Help prevent chronic symptoms like memory loss, depression, or headaches
- Increase the likelihood of returning to work, school, and normal activities
What are some other resources available outside of Vaya?
The following are trusted organizations for TBI support and advocacy:
- NC Brain Injury Advisory Council (Note that Vaya’s Area Director and CEO, Tracy Hayes, serves as Vice Chair of this Council)
- State Consumer and Family Advisory Committee (includes individuals representing the TBI community)
- Brain Injury Association of America
- Brain Injury Association of North Carolina
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
