Strengthen AL's statewide TBI system of care through access, community collaboration, education. and data-driven innovation to improve independence and community reintegration for individuals with TBI - The Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services (ADRS) proposes to strengthen Alabama’s statewide traumatic brain injury (TBI) system of care through access, community collaboration, education and data driven innovation to improve independence, and community re-integration for individuals with TBI (IWTBI) and their families including those in rural and minimally resourced communities. This project will 1) expand access to person-centered TBI identification, peer mentorship, navigation services and support by strengthening screening, information/referral, and resource facilitation pathways 2) strengthen Alabama’s statewide TBI network through 8 regional TBI community exchange models, cross-sector partnerships, and coordinated service delivery 3) reduce service gaps through evidence-informed education, advocacy, peer mentorship, workforce training, outreach and improved access to TBI information and community resources and 4) strengthen statewide infrastructure, leadership, strategic planning, collaboration and data driven decision making. ADRS will implement community-based identification and referral strategies, expand navigation and peer support, establish 8 regional community exchanges, strengthen caregiver supports, and professional/community education; engage individuals with lived experience, expand state and national partnerships and standardize data collection and evaluation. Anticipated outcomes include annual 10% increase in screening/referrals, 80% participant satisfaction, 40 peer support participants in year one; 15% growth in cross-sector collaboration, partnerships and geographic reach; 25% demonstrating improved knowledge, skills and confidence; a 10% reduction in identified service gaps, and 25% increases in lived experience engagement and state/national collaboration. Outcome data sources will include pre/post assessments, rosters and navigation data. Key products from September 30, 2026-September 29, 2029, will include TBI community exchange models, Knowledge/Confidence/Satisfaction Assessments, caregiver and peer mentor initiatives, State TBI Plan, and expanded data dashboard/resource website.
