Concussion Program Brochure
 

Dear Parent/Guardian, 

The Hershey JR Bears are about to begin utilizing an innovative program for their hockey players.  The program is called ImPACT (Immediate Post Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing) and it is a computerized exam that the athlete takes prior to the season.   If the athlete is believed to have suffered a head injury they re-take the exam to help determine the extent of the injury and when the injury has healed.  The system is utilized throughout professional sports, has been mandated in the NHL, and is fast becoming the “Gold Standard” in recognizing and better managing concussion type injuries.  The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center’s Sports Concussion Program is the founding group of this software.

            The exam takes about 15-20 minutes and is non-invasive.  The program is basically set-up as a “video-game” type format.  What it is doing is giving the brain a preseason physical of its cognitive abilities.  It tracks information such as memory, reaction time, processing speed, and concentration.  It is simple and actually most that take it enjoy the challenge of the test. The exam has gained recognition around the world.

            If a concussion is suspected, the test is re-taken and  the information can be used to better determine recovery from a concussion.  Concussion specialists at Hershey Medical Center will be able to interpret the data and a sound decision can be made as to when return-to-play is appropriate and safe.  If an injury of this nature occurs please contact our office for further details.

            The information gained in our program may be utilized in studies being conducted by both Hershey Medical Center and UPMC.  We have set-up an anonymous identification system so that your child’s anonymity is guaranteed with any study.  This data may anonymously be sent to UPMC for  their large database.

            Please do not hesitate to contact the Penn State Concussion Program if you have any questions regarding the ImPACT test or concussions.  Have a great hockey season.  

Sincerely, 
Harry P. Bramley, D.O.
Medical Director
Penn State Concussion Program
717-531-6824
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Instructions of how to take the online version of ImPACT:
Go to www.ImPACTtestonline.com/Pennstateconcussionprogram and click on “Launch Baseline.” 
Follow the instructions.  For school/organization click “Hershey Jr. Bears.”   

By taking the online version ImPACT, the participant understands and abides by the rules as stated above.