Teleconcussion: An innovative approach to screening, diagnosis, and management of mild traumatic brain injury

Concussion awareness and management in sports have gained a great deal of attention in light of research illustrating the potentially devastating consequences of repeated traumatic brain injuries. In order to address this public health crisis, numerous states have passed legislation that mandates medical clearance before being eligible to return to play of concussed athletes by a qualified healthcare provider. As the number of qualified healthcare providers with expertise in the diagnosis and management of concussions remains very small, patient safety and the ability to fulfill these legislative return-to-play requirements present unique problems to rural communities without easy access to subspecialty care. Telemedicine is a possible means by which to address the needs of the rural student-athlete.