Spinal Cord Injury: Resources for the Personal Injury Attorney

Evaluating a spinal cord injury (SCI) case can be challenging, especially when it comes to understanding the full scope of the long-term care and medical needs the plaintiff will face. Given the severity and complexity of spinal cord injuries, having access to the right resources is crucial for constructing a comprehensive life care plan that adequately accounts for the ongoing needs of the plaintiff.

Here are two valuable resources that can help personal injury attorneys assess SCI cases and better understand the types of services and equipment that may be required both now and in the future:

  1. Outcomes Following Spinal Cord Injuries (Paralyzed Veterans of America)

This free publication from the Paralyzed Veterans of America provides a wealth of information on SCI outcomes. It includes specific tables that describe the expected functional outcomes based on the level of injury. The detailed descriptions allow attorneys to understand the potential impact on a client’s mobility, independence, and the necessary support services, both short-term and long-term. This resource is invaluable for helping you project the scope of care and services required for your client’s life care plan.

  • How to Use: Look up your client’s specific spinal cord injury level (pages 23-30) to see the expected functional outcomes and corresponding services needed. These can include both medical care and non-medical services, such as personal care assistance.
  • Link to Resource: Outcomes Following Spinal Cord Injuries

2. Simplifying the Complex Needs of Spinal Cord Injury Patient Life Care Plans (Journal for Nurse Life Care Planners)

This article, authored by Dr. Marc Orlando, MD, outlines the extensive and often complex needs associated with spinal cord injuries that should be considered when preparing a life care plan. Dr. Orlando’s article provides a breakdown of common line items in an SCI life care plan, including ongoing medical care, physical therapy, medication, diagnostic procedures, and the need for durable medical equipment. It also highlights specific needs like adaptive transportation and home modifications, which are crucial to the plaintiff’s ability to live independently.

Next Steps

If you’re handling a spinal cord injury case and need assistance with preparing a life care plan or need an expert analysis, please reach out to Dawn Cook, who specializes in creating life care plans for serious injuries and illnesses. She can provide guidance tailored to your client’s specific case, ensuring that all aspects of care and cost are accounted for.

With these resources and expert support, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the complexities of spinal cord injury cases and provide the best possible advocacy for your clients.