There are two sessions this year. The first session will be held on September 20, 2008 and the second session will be held on September 27, 2008. Testing for both sessions begin at 9:30 am and we will schedule the appointments based on when you register your player for the testing. The first 10 players registered will be tested from 9:30 am to 10:00 am; the next 10 players registered will be tested from 10:00 am to 10:30 am and this process will continue until all players have been tested.
This program was very successful last year and was instrumental in helping determining when it was appropriate for several players to return to the ice after receiving concussions last season.
What is baseline testing? Basline testing is done by using ImPACT™ (Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing). ImPACT, developed by Dr. Mark Lovell who is a neuropsychologist, study investigator and director of UPMC’s sports concussion program, is the first computerized concussion evaluation system that involves the collection of pre-season baseline neurocognitive function data that is stored and compared to post-injury data by re-testing the athlete after concussion. ImPACT helps to accurately and objectively measure the effects of concussion as well as help determine when it is safe for an athlete to return to sports following injury. Generally, only when post-injury ImPACT scores match the athlete’s baseline scores is the athlete cleared to return to play.
Because of the large number of players that will be signing up for this program, we will not be able to schedule appointment times other than as described above. However, if you have a conflict with a scheduled time, we will try to work out a more convenient time for the testing if possible.
Shortly after you register, a form will be sent to the e-mail address that you indicate in the registration process. This form should be completed and taken to the testing center on the date of testing. The testing will be conducted at the Center for Sports Medicine at their South Side location and takes approximately 30 minutes.
Cost for this testing will again be $40.00 which is payable by cash or check payable to UPMC Presby-Shadyside (no insurance or credit cards). The baseline test is valid for approximately 4 years so the cost for the test works out to be $10 per year.
DATES: Saturday, September 20, 2008
Saturday, September 27, 2008
TIME: Beginning at 9:30 am
LOCATION: UPMC Center for Sports Medicine