WINTERFEST: Brain Injury Across the Lifespan: Navigating Change, Championing Care

ON DEMAND WEBINAR

Presented by Kathy Stachowski OTR/L, CBIST

1.O Contact Hours

Description:

One in four Ohioans will experience a traumatic brain injury (TBI) in their lifetime—a staggering statistic that underscores the urgent need for coordinated, lifelong care. In 2024, the landscape of TBI care was evolving rapidly. Groundbreaking research, increased funding, and the emergence of best practices marked a time of unprecedented progress. Notably, Medicare’s recognition of TBI as a chronic condition and the growing use of the term neuro-informed care signaled a shift toward more comprehensive, person-centered support across the lifespan.

However, in 2025, significant federal funding changes disrupted this momentum. What once seemed like a promising future quickly became uncertain. These federal shifts had immediate ripple effects on state and local programs, halting or scaling back vital services. In this new environment, agility, innovation, and advocacy became essential tools for maintaining continuity of care.

This presentation is designed to equip occupational therapy practitioners—and others working with individuals living with TBI—with the critical knowledge and strategies needed to navigate this changing landscape. Attendees will gain insights into the policy changes impacting care, understand the implications of neuro-informed care, and explore collaborative solutions for supporting the lifelong needs of people with TBI. Resources and practical tools will be shared to help professionals continue to deliver high-quality, person-centered care despite systemic challenges.

Objectives:

• Attendees will be able to describe how adopting the concept of neuro-informed care can enhance support and outcomes for individuals living with brain injury.
• Attendees will be able to identify three major funding changes in 2025 that significantly affected care and services for individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI).
• Attendees will be able to design a community-based plan that integrates diverse resources to support the ongoing educational and care needs of individuals with TBI.

Presenter bio:

Kathy Stachowski is an occupational therapy practitioner with extensive experience in brain injury rehabilitation. Holding the credentials of Occupational Therapy Registered/Licensed (OTR/L) and Certified Brain Injury Specialist Trainer (CBIST), she is committed to advancing care for individuals affected by traumatic brain injury (TBI). Kathy has actively contributed to the field through various roles, including as a rehabilitation clinician, healthcare leader in neurorehabilitation, serving on advisory boards and collaborating with organizations focused on brain health. Her expertise encompasses neuro-informed care practices, program development, and advocacy efforts. As a CBIST, Kathy is a leader in training and mentoring professionals, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide effective care for those living with brain injuries.

Kathy’s dedication extends beyond clinical practice; she is an active advocate for policy changes that support the long-term care and inclusion of individuals with TBI in the community. Through her efforts, she strives to create a more informed and compassionate healthcare environment for those affected by brain injuries.

Hosted by OOTA