Overview

A concussion baseline is a computerized neuro-cognitive test done at a computer or on an iPad through ImPACT applications. It measures several different areas of the brain's performance, like processing speed, memory, and reaction time. If a player is removed from a game for suspected concussion, ImPACT can be run again by medical professionals post-injury and compared to baseline to look for mental deficits one cannot readily observe.

Players with a baseline often can be cleared sooner to return to school and sport because there it provides important information about that player's recovery. Players without a baseline may take longer to get cleared by medical providers, as they are missing important information for that patient. See the ImPACT website for more information.

For players younger than 10, the baseline is done on an iPad with parental assistance in reading the instructions.

The ImPACT Test Is:

• One important piece of the overall concussion evaluation and management process.
• A sophisticated test of cognitive abilities.
• The most scientifically researched concussion management tool.
• A tool that can help health care professionals track recovery of cognitive processes following concussion.
• A tool to help communicate post-concussion status to athletes, coaches, parents, clinicians.
• A tool that helps health care professionals and educators make decisions about academic needs or employment modifications need following concussion.

The ImPACT Test Is Not:

• ImPACT is NOT a "panacea" or cure-all for concussion, as there is no such thing. As long as contact to the head occurs, concussion will continue to happen.
• ImPACT is NOT a tool to diagnose concussion, which should always be diagnosed by a qualified health care provider.
• ImPACT is NOT a substitute for medical evaluation and treatment.

Additional Information

Athletes MUST be registered in order to attend a baseline testing session. ImPACT emails a unique code to the parent/guardian upon completion of the baseline test by the athlete. The parent keeps that code and if the child is injured during the season and needs medical evaluation, the parent can provide that code to the medical provider treating the concussion for access to the pre-season baseline results. Cost: $50 per player and includes online concussion education. Group Discounts available to teams/clubs. There will be an additional charge for off-site testing.