The following is a guest article by Jared Gillespie, Senior Director of Clinical Solutions at Academy Medtech Ventures (AMV)

In the landscape of rehabilitative care, the integration of neurocognitive technology stands as a beacon of innovation, charting a course toward improved clinical quality and patient outcomes. This journey into the brain’s potential within rehabilitation not only elevates the standard of care but also underscores the role of advanced technologies in shaping the future of healthcare.

Traditional rehabilitative care has predominantly focused on physical recovery, often overlooking the brain’s integral role in the healing process. However, the brain is a largely untapped vehicle for human optimization and offers substantial benefits when addressed intentionally with clinical oversight. Incorporating neurocognitive training into care plans is a testament to the advancements in technology and technology-driven rehabilitation, and an evolving healthcare landscape that’s learning the undeniable benefits of cognitive priming.

This integration facilitates a more holistic approach to rehabilitation, where the focus is on both the brain and the body. Modern rehabilitative clinics are increasingly adopting in-clinic modalities that incorporate neurocognitive assessment and treatment capabilities. This includes advanced data collection and analysis capabilities, allowing for a more informed and comprehensive care delivery. By integrating neurocognitive assessments and training into the therapeutic process, clinicians can now better assess patient progress and tailor their interventions more precisely to meet the individual needs of their patients. This not only enhances the quality of care and the care experience but also improves patient engagement and outcomes.

Platform technology is helping advance this innovation into practice for clinicians by providing tools to engage many areas of a patient’s cognitive function, including motor speed, working memory, information processing, and executive function. This approach is crucial in addressing the cognitive aspects of rehabilitation often neglected in traditional care models due to a lack of technology, tools, and workflows that enable it.

Neurocognitive assessment solutions cater to a broad range of patients, from those with neurological conditions like stroke, traumatic brain injuries, and neurodegenerative diseases, like CTE, to cancer rehabilitation, symptoms of long COVID, and individuals rehabbing from orthopedic surgeries or sports-related injuries. These interventions are particularly beneficial for enhancing neuroplasticity, aiding in cognitive and physical recovery, and optimizing performance under stress. Athletes looking to improve recovery outcomes, older adults facing age-related cognitive decline, and individuals experiencing cognitive fatigue from chronic conditions or stress significantly benefit from tailored cognitive interventions. By addressing both the cognitive and physical dimensions of rehabilitation, these solutions offer a personalized approach to care, leading to improved outcomes, higher patient engagement, and a more satisfying rehabilitation experience across diverse patient populations.

The adoption of neurocognitive assessment solutions in rehabilitative care has led to widespread benefits. Clinics that have embraced these integrated care plans report high levels of patient loyalty and satisfaction – having seen partners report 92% and up – showcasing the positive reception of this innovative approach. Additionally, the positive impact on streamlined workflows, clinical efficiency, and effectiveness demonstrates the potential of neurocognitive technologies to revolutionize the business of clinical practices. Moreover, clinics can see an uplift in financials, like gross revenue per visit, from offering more comprehensive and effective care plans, which in turn, increases the value perceived by patients. Clinics are not only able to attract more patients but also ensure better outcomes, leading to higher retention rates and a stronger financial position.

The integration of neurocognitive technology in rehabilitative care represents a significant advancement in how we approach healing and recovery. By focusing on the brain’s role in rehabilitation, clinics can offer more comprehensive and effective care plans, leading to improved patient outcomes and financial sustainability. As we continue to explore the capabilities of the brain, the potential for further transformation in the quality and value of rehabilitative care remains vast and largely untapped. With this advancing technology, we are just beginning to scratch the surface of what’s possible when we combine the power of technology with the complexity of human cognition.

About Jared Gillespie

Jared Gillespie is a Physical Therapist and Senior Director of Clinical Solutions at Academy Medtech Ventures (AMV), a leading digital health company specializing in neurocognitive training solutions. Jared has a Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT) and is a Board-Certified Sports Clinical Specialist. Prior to joining AMV, Jared spent over a decade at Baylor Scott & White Institute for Rehabilitation where he developed a sports residency program credentialled by the American Board of Physical Therapy Residency and Fellowship Education and served as a Center Manager for sports and orthopedic specialized clinics.