The University of Wollongong has partnered with Wollongong-based Aeternal Group to support an Australian-first program aimed at helping veterans experiencing symptoms of traumatic brain injury linked to blast exposure.
The Veteran Brain Health Intensive is bringing together neurologists, psychiatrists, neuropsychologists and allied health specialists to provide comprehensive assessments for veterans affected by blast exposure. Four veterans from Perth, Sydney and Brisbane are taking part in the latest program being held in Wollongong this week, following a successful pilot earlier this year. UOW is providing facilities, including its Clinical Trials and Research Unit, and research expertise to support the initiative.
Professor Alan Rowan, UOW’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation), said the partnership would help bring a new model of care closer to veterans and their families while building research into the long-term impacts of blast exposure on brain health.
The program was developed by Aeternal Group after identifying a gap in care for Australian veterans experiencing symptoms consistent with blast-induced brain injury. Conservative estimates suggest between 3,000 and 6,000 Australian veterans may be living with ongoing symptoms, although the true figure is believed to be higher.
Kasey Mumford, Chief Executive Officer of Aeternal Group, said support from UOW was an important step towards expanding the program nationally to meet growing demand within the veteran community. Organisers hope the Veteran Brain Health Intensive will become the foundation for a nationally significant clinical program and long-term research cohort.
