Every year an estimated 2.8 million individuals sustain a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Approximately 75% are classified as mild – yet the resulting effects are hardly mild. Although many people do not have visible physical signs, they develop disabling cognitive, psychological and/or behavioral impairments. Employment disabilities often go unnoticed or are misdiagnosed.
On February 14, 2018, the FDA signed off on a first-of-its-kind blood test. Up until now, physicians have had to rely on CT scans or MRIs to get a picture of the brain. Both are costly and not always reliable in diagnosing mild traumatic brain injuries.
The Banyan Brain Trauma Indicator (BTI) is a blood test that measures the levels of two brain-specific proteins which appear in the blood within 12 hours of the injury. Although it does not eliminate the need for observation and intervention from licensed medical professionals, this less-costly alternative decreases the likelihood of misdiagnosis and the resulting negative consequences.
When it comes to health insurance, it’s easy to know if you’re uninsured: you either have coverage, or you don’t. But being underinsured is more of a gray area. You have health insurance, but because of a high deductible or other out-of-pocket costs, it doesn’t cover as much as you might need. Your income may not be high enough to offset the coverage gaps. This article breaks down what counts as being underinsured and the financial risks involved. Your IHC agent will review your particular situation at no charge to help you find the best solution for you.
A new Alzheimer’s Association report finds doctors and the public face challenges in understanding and distinguishing early Alzheimer’s development from “normal aging.” 
