Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are life-altering events that can range from mild concussions to severe brain trauma. While initial medical care focuses on stabilizing the patient and preventing immediate complications, the journey doesn’t end there.
Rehabilitation after a TBI is a long-term process. This involves months or even years of therapy, specialized care, and support services.
Along with the physical and emotional challenges, one of the biggest considerations is the financial impact of recovery. Understanding the long-term costs of rehabilitation after a TBI can help families plan for the future and, in some cases, pursue compensation if someone else’s negligence caused the injury.
Medical and Therapy Expenses
The economic cost of nonfatal TBIs is substantial. CDC research shows the annual healthcare cost of nonfatal TBIs is over $40.6 billion.
Rehabilitation after a TBI is not just one type of therapy. You have a whole team working together. Physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, and cognitive rehabilitation specialists all play a role in helping the patient regain independence.
Each session can add up quickly. Spending $100 to $250 per visit is not uncommon. Unfortunately, many people require multiple sessions per week for months or even years.
Insurance often helps, but copays, deductibles, and limits on covered sessions can still leave families footing substantial bills.
Hospital and Post-Acute Care Costs
Severe TBIs can require lengthy hospital stays in specialized neurotrauma units. After that, patients move to inpatient rehab facilities. At this point, the daily care is intensive and highly specialized.
Monthly costs for inpatient rehab can range from $10,000 to $50,000, depending on the level of care. For some, transitional care in skilled nursing facilities or assisted living may be necessary if returning home immediately is not an option. When you add in medications, follow-up visits with neurologists or neuropsychologists, the bills can feel overwhelming.
Assistive Devices and Home Modifications
Recovering independence after a TBI requires more than therapy sessions. Wheelchairs, walkers, specialized seating, or communication devices are essential, with costs ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars.
Many homes need modifications, such as ramps, grab bars, and stair lifts, to help the patient safely navigate daily life. These are necessary changes for the house, but they can add tens of thousands of dollars to the family’s financial picture.
Cognitive and Emotional Rehabilitation Costs
TBIs affect the body and the mind. Memory, attention, and problem-solving skills can all take a hit. This can require ongoing cognitive rehabilitation. Therapy might be needed multiple times a week, for months or longer. However, the insurance coverage for outpatient or home-based programs can be limited.
Emotional support is important to the recovery process. Depression, anxiety, and personality changes are common after TBI. That makes counseling or psychiatric care a necessary, ongoing expense.
Lost Income and Employment Challenges
One of the highest hidden costs of a TBI is lost income. Even mild injuries can make it difficult to return to work at full capacity. Severe cases may prevent a patient from working indefinitely.
Along with that, caregivers face similar challenges. They may need to reduce hours or leave jobs to provide care. Over time, lost wages can surpass the direct medical costs, putting extra pressure on families.
Insurance Limitations and Out-of-Pocket Expenses
Insurance helps, but it does not always cover everything. Many plans limit the number of therapy sessions or require prior authorization for continued care.
Deductibles and copays can leave families paying thousands out of pocket. For those without great coverage, long-term rehabilitation can become a financial juggling act.
Taking Legal Action to Recover Compensation
The long-term costs of a TBI can quickly become overwhelming, especially when someone else’s negligence caused the injury. In these situations, legal action can help secure the compensation needed to cover medical bills, ongoing therapy, assistive devices, and lost income.
At DiPiero Simmons McGinley & Bastress, PLLC, we specialize in representing individuals and families who have suffered serious injuries, including TBIs, due to the carelessness or misconduct of others.
While no one wants to face a legal battle, taking action against negligent parties can make sure that the financial burden of a TBI doesn’t fall entirely on you or your loved ones.
