MAC Alliance healthcare specialists can assess concussions by testing with an FDA-cleared, nationally recognized tool called ImPACT (Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing). With ImPACT, we can measure verbal and visual memory, processing, impulse control and reaction time to see if these areas have been affected. By doing so, we protect patient from serious consequences of returning to regular activities too soon. Our credentialed ImPACT consultants (CIC) are trained in this proven concussion system which is cleared for ages 5-80 and has been administered more than 17 million times.
Side effects from concussions can include changes in how the brain functions, such as cognitive issues or slower reaction time. While traditional neurological imaging tests like CT scans can identify serious brain injuries like skull fractures, they do not identify mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) or concussions.
Time for Return to Play?
ImPACT was developed by a team of neuroscientists at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center – Center for Sports Medicine. Baseline ImPACT testing documents the healthy brain function of individuals. When these individuals suffer a head injury, post-injury ImPACT testing helps clinicians make accurate concussion treatment decisions. Follow-up tests can be provided over a period of time to continue to track recovery. For individuals who do not have an available baseline test, we can measure post-concussion results against national norms.
This popular tool is widely used by thousands of healthcare organizations, high schools and colleges to help diagnose concussion severity. Major league soccer, US lacrosse, the NFL, the NHL and NASCAR also all rely on ImPACT to help determine how quickly athletes can return to play, since recovery can take days or weeks. Findings show that premature return to normal activities like sports programs can lead to potentially serious consequences, and ImPACT continues to partner with scientists to support research on concussions, brain injuries and brain health.
ImPACT Concussion Testing Highlights:
- Computerized cognitive test
- Fast and easy – about 20 minutes
- Assesses verbal and visual memory, visual motor speed and more
- For any individual who has suffered an injury, fall or accident
- Widely used across the country
- Available in 22 languages
ImPACT Is Featured on the Revolutionary New MAC-Cart
ImPACT screenings are part of our portable, affordable new MAC Brain Health Cart. MAC-Cart is a game changer in brain health and concussion baselining testing, diagnosis and treatment. Right now, we have 10 MAC-Carts testing in the Mid-Atlantic region. While the MAC-Cart will not be widely available until March 1, 2021, we are continuing to send prototypes into the field for testing. If you are interested in a demo or more information on a MAC-Cart lease, please call 302-235-8808 or email us. You can also find more details on the MAC-Cart website.
The Mid-Atlantic Concussion (MAC) Alliance is a growing network of certified medical practitioners and athletic trainer affiliates located throughout Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and Virginia. For more information on where you can find ImPACT testing or any of the other advanced neurological tools employed by the MAC Alliance, such as RightEye®, BrainScope® One, EyeGuide® Focus, Sway Balance System® and Creyos Health®, visit Find a Mac Center.
