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STEP Concussion and Mild TBI Certificate Program

Expand Your Knowledge and Skills in Concussion Management

Join the ranks of concussion management experts with AAPM&R's new STEP Concussion and Mild TBI Certificate Program - the most comprehensive and progressive training program designed for physiatrists.

The STEP Concussion and Mild TBI Certificate Program is a multi-tiered training program that teaches and assesses concussion management using a progressive, competency-based curriculum. Designed by expert physiatrists in the field, this program offers a comprehensive approach to managing concussion and mild traumatic brain injury. Participants move through a series of three steps, completing each component through a combination of learning formats. Upon completion of the program, participants will earn a Certificate of Completion, demonstrating their achievement and commitment to excellence in concussion management.

When you earn the STEP Concussion and Mild TBI Program Certificate, you:

  • Represent the highest standard in the practice of concussion management
  • Gain confidence in your knowledge and skills
  • Enhance your career opportunities
  • Increase visibility and credibility in the field
  • Demonstrate to patients and employers that you are committed to excellence in the management of concussion and TBI

Who Should Participate

Physiatrists looking to add or enhance concussion management in their practice, either in private practice or academic medical centers. PM&R residents may participate in the program.

Physicians have received the prerequisite medical training required for treating concussion and mild TBI. Advanced practice providers (APPs) may register for and participate in the education program if they are sponsored by a physiatrist. Only physicians will be eligible to earn a certificate of completion after passing the assessment components. (Note: APP members of the Academy are automatically considered to be sponsored and do not need to take any further action to register; non-member APPs may contact education@aapmr.org for more information).

Learning Objectives

After completion of the STEP Concussion and Mild TBI Certificate Program, participants should be able to:

  • Describe the epidemiology of concussion in different age groups, sexes, and types of trauma.
  • Identify modifying risk factors for sustaining a concussion and for persisting symptoms and complications.
  • Recognize the signs and symptoms of concussion and mild TBI.
  • Perform an in-office assessment and on-field assessment.
  • Evaluate the long-term prognosis of patients suffering from concussion and mild TBI using current consensus guidelines.
  • Identify special populations and psychosocial modifiers to customize treatment plans for specific patients based on current best practices.
  • Describe the prevention management tools needed to treat the patient population.
  • Demonstrate appropriate concussion management strategies and understand the impact on patients.

Program Developers and Faculty

  • Arthur J. De Luigi, DO, FAAPMR, Chair
  • Kathleen R. Bell, MD, FAAPMR
  • Stanley A. Herring, MD, FAAPMR
  • Aaron M. Karlin, MD, FAAPMR
  • Emerald Lin, MD, FAAPMR
  • Ginger R. Polich, MD, FAAPMR
  • David L. Ripley, MD, MS, FAAPMR
  • Caroline F. Sizer, MD, FAAPMR
  • Ross D. Zafonte, DO, FAAPMR

Looking for Sponsorship Opportunities?

The STEP Concussion and Mild TBI Certificate Program consists of three steps, which must be completed in order as outlined below. 

STEP 1: Online Program - Accessible upon registering for the course!

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  1. Baseline Pre-Exam with 25 Questions
    • Assess your current knowledge of concussion and mild TBI
    • No minimum passing score
    • Must be completed to unlock and access the online curriculum
  1. Online Curriculum = 16.5 CME credits
    • Includes more than 35 presentations and video demonstrations On-Demand

STEP 2: Live Course - March 15-17 in Rosemont, IL

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  1. Online Interval Exam with 25 Questions
    • Must be completed prior to Step Two Live Course 
  2. Step Two: Concussion and Mild TBI Live Course

STEP 3: Assessment and Certificate - March 17, in Rosemont, IL

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  1. Cognitive Assessment: Online Final Post-Exam
  2. In-Person Skills Assessment
    • The in-person assessment will be held on March 17, 2024 following the live STEP 2 course.

Once you complete and pass both components, you will receive your Certificate of Completion.