Concussion Evaluation System expands in UK

ImPACT Applications, hospital Inc has announced new partnerships with the Football Association (FA) and International Football and Futsal Development Campus (IFFDC).

The FA and the IFFDC will conduct baseline and post-injury neurocognitive testing using ImPACT and ImPACT Pediatric as part of their larger concussion management protocols to help medical personnel make objective return-to-play decisions for athletes.

The FA began baseline testing of its women’s national teams in August and the men’s teams in September. Similarly, the IFFDC will use ImPACT and ImPACT Pediatric to explore the issue of head injuries in football and collect research to enhance its concussion protocol as the organization continues to devote the time needed to each individual player.

“In our efforts to develop the highest standards of player health and safety, The FA is pleased to put ImPACT Applications’ software in place for its England’s men’s and women’s national teams,” said Dr. Charlotte Cowie, head of performance medicine at The FA.

“Our instructors are with these athletes 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and player safety is crucial,” noted Gary Sloane, director of football operations at IFFDC. “In football, players used to treat possible head injury more lightly. Now, it’s viewed differently, and the IFFDC is keen on raising awareness around concussions. We wanted to work with the best partner who would take us in the right direction in planning our concussion management protocol. ImPACT Applications was the obvious choice.”

“Students and athletes who aren’t tested end up paying the cost,” noted Nigel Tatlock, director, Sports & Entertainment Engagement Ltd. (SEE). “Concussion is a serious health issue, and ImPACT Applications’ work can help address it. We’re proud to join ImPACT Applications and the IFFDC to protect children’s welfare.”

SEE has partnered with ImPACT Applications and the IFFDC to help raise awareness within the education and sports sectors among organizations that would benefit from using ImPACT and ImPACT Pediatric.

“We are honoured to be partnering with two strong international organizations promoting safety in the sport of football,” said Michael Wahlster, chief executive officer of ImPACT Applications. “We look forward to working with The FA, the IFFDC, and SEE to raise awareness about concussion management in the UK.”