NIDDR and the National TBI Data Base

TBI Model Systems and the TBI National Data Base are sponsored by the National Institute for Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR) in the Department of Education. In 1987, NIDRR authorized a research and demonstration program that established model systems of care for individuals with TBI. Objectives of the TBI Model Systems are to

1. demonstrate and evaluate the cost-benefit and service delivery outcomes of a comprehensive service delivery system for individuals with TBI
2. establish a research program to evaluate the development of a new database and conduct innovative analysis of research data
3. demonstrate and evaluate the development and application of improved and innovative methods essential to the care and rehabilitation of individuals with TBI
4. participate in national studies of the TBI Model System concept by contributing to the National TBI Data Base as prescribed by the Secretary of Education.

The model system of care provides a comprehensive, coordinated system of care for people with traumatic brain injuries. Essential clinical components of a model system are Emergency Medical Services, acute neurosurgical and rehabilitative care in a trauma center environment, comprehensive rehabilitation services in an inpatient TBI rehabilitation unit, and long-term interdisciplinary follow-up and outpatient rehabilitation services.

All TBIMS centers recruit new subjects and conduct long term follow up on previously recruited subjects for the National TBI Data Base, housed at the TBI National Data & Statistical Center. Located at Craig Hospital in Englewood, Colorado, the National Data & Statistical Center serves as a central resource for researchers and data collectors within the TBIMS program. Their primary purpose is to advance medical rehabilitation by increasing the rigor and efficiency of scientific efforts and to assess the experience of individuals with TBI over the very long term. The National Data & Statistical Center provides technical assistance, training, and methodological consultation to all 14 TBIMS centers as they conduct research toward evidence-based TBI rehabilitation interventions.