BLUE MARBLE REHAB INC — Department of Defense SBIR Phase II: OSD09-H01

Description

Problem: While most people fully recover from an m-TBI episode; 5-15% report cognitive symptoms after one year. 1 The residual symptoms commonly include impairments in memory, attention, reasoning, processing speed and executive functions. Providing effective telehealth solutions for this widely dispersed population would be lower cost than brick and mortar services. Opportunity: Mobile digital devices enable globally accessible, objective cognitive-perceptual-motor skill assessment and interventions. We developed and validated a mobile digital cognitive health tool, Treasure of Bell Island, that delivers selected evidence-based cognitive assessments and ecologically relevant skill practice with secure data reporting. Objectives: 1) revise the software based on results of previous pilot study; 2) expand software features to address a greater range of cognitive impairments; 3) expand the database capabilities, and 4) evaluate feasibility, usability, and effectiveness in a larger clinical trial. Strong theory and empirical results appeal to decision makers seeking to improve outcomes, reduce healthcare costs and enhance the availability of care. Effort: Blue Marbles trans-disciplinary team and the Product Integration Advisory Board, comprised of experts in military, veteran and civilian healthcare administration, will collaborate to refine Treasure of Bell Island for healthcare markets. Anticipated Results: Treasure of Bell Island (Beta2) will be a comprehensive, effective tool for evaluating and treating cognitive-perceptual-motor impairments secondary to mTBI.