Out-patient services - Early Response Concussion Service - GF Strong

The GF Strong Early Response Concussion Service (ERCS) is an early intervention service for clients with a recent concussion or mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI).  The purpose of this service is to support individuals with concussions and their family physicians (health care providers) with concussion self-management. An Occupational Therapist provides the ERCS interventions.

Who is eligible for this program?

• 19 years or over (18 if they graduated from high school).

• Recent concussion (6 months or less). Individuals with symptoms beyond 6 months can be considered for referral to the Self-Management Program. 

• Live within the Vancouver Coastal Health region.

ERCS services provided:

• All clients are provided with education on concussion, including guidelines for self-management of symptoms and gradual return to activities, through print materials and group information sessions. 

• A summary of the education provided is sent to the family physician. 

For individuals with persistent symptoms or risk factors for prolonged recovery, additional supports may include: 

• Consultation with the Occupational Therapist on a limited basis.
  

• Referrals to community resources and other relevant supports.
  

• Assessment by a physician.

Need to make a referral?

All referrals must be made by a Physician or Nurse Practitioner. This program does not accept self-referrals. 

Early response concussion referral forms can be faxed to the GF Strong Rehab Centre.

Related information

Click on the Resources tab for links to additional information on concussion and recovery. 

Physicians and health care providers looking for additional information on concussion diagnosis, symptom management and gradual return to activity guidelines are invited to visit the Ontario Neurotrauma Foundation Website for the Guidelines for Concussion/Mild Traumatic Brain Injury & Persistent Symptoms (2nd Edition).