Lawyer Monthly Magazine August 2020 Edition

When assessing clients with a brain injury, what are the important factors to consider? In my view, it is extremely important to fully comprehend the multiplicity of challenges that those with brain injuries can present, especially some of the more subtle cognitive deficits which can impact upon a sense of self and relationships with others, as well as the wider implications, to include social integration and employment. Recognising and taking account of these subtle cognitive challenges really helps me as a care expert to provide informed, clinically reasoned and robust care recommendations for the purposes of the court. How important is it that clients with a diagnosed brain injury undergo rehabilitation? In the first instance, it is essential that any expert who is undertaking an assessment, fully understands the sequelae to a brain injury and how this can impact on the daily lives of clients. Some clients have already received rehabilitation via the statutory services; however, the paucity of community based services generally means the level and duration of rehabilitation is limited. As a care expert, I always give careful consideration to the potential benefits of rehabilitation and how this can be best provided. The costs of privately organised rehabilitation packages can be significant, and it is essential that any rehabilitation package is carefully monitored and reviewed to ensure that goals remain realistic and appropriate. I am of the view that rehabilitation should be based on evidence and be time limited to when an optimal level of functioning has been achieved. The delivery of home based rehabilitation needs additional thinking, to ensure that the role of support workers remains clear and in some instances, are clearly differentiated from rehabilitation assistants. Gary is a highly experienced specialist neurological occupational therapist. He joined JJ&A in 2012 and has significant experience as an expert witness and case manager. Gary has a particular interest in clients who have sustained a brain injury, as well as those with significant orthopaedic and neurological deficit. 69 AUG 2020 | WWW.LAWYER-MONTHLY.COM EXPERT WITNESS Gary Ford Neurological Occupational Therapist Jane James & Associates “As a care expert, I always give careful consideration to the potential benefits of rehabilitation and how this can be best provided.”