Codesigning an integrated model of care for early management of individuals with moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injury who have pre-existing mental health difficulties

About the Project

Chief Investigators: Honan, Ownsworth, Wong, Simpson, Lannin, Mitchell, Emery, Gabbe, Geraghty, Gullo, Hopwood, Evans & McDonald

Associate Investigators: Ramsden, Bates, Bell, Mahoney, Griffin, Owens, Adams, Brown, Berry, Fernon, Leung

Aim and objectives:

This project aims to co-design an evidence-based, integrated model of care for the early management of individuals with moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) who have pre-existing mental health or psychiatric difficulties. The objectives are to enable early identification, personalised management, and coordinated care across brain injury, mental health, and alcohol and other drug services.

Expected outcomes and impact

The project will deliver a novel, integrated model of care that addresses the complex and intersecting needs of individuals with TBI and pre-injury psychiatric conditions. Implemented early after injury, this framework is expected to improve care coordination, support more personalised treatment, and lead to better long-term clinical and psychosocial outcomes for this high-risk population.

Project status and timeframe

This is a three-phase project running from 2025 to 2027, conducted across four Australian states. The work is informed by national stakeholder priority-setting activities and systematic reviews.