Conference to feature ImPACT concussion program, visual Issues associated with concussion

Cedar Rapids Vision In Motion, 3255 Williams Blvd SW, a non-profit vision wellness and rehabilitation center, will host its 4th annual “Training Your Brain to See Again” Conference Friday, February 24, and Saturday, February 25, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The conference will be held at the Kirkwood Training & Outreach Services Center, 3375 Armar Dr., Marion. This year's conference will focus on how to diagnose and treat a concussion/acquired brain injury, as well as the visual disorders and disturbances commonly associated with them.

This year's conference will feature two days of information starting Friday, February 24, with a special presentation by Dr. Mark Lovell and Dr. Jamie Pardini of ImPACT. The ImPACT program is a neuropsychological testing program that aids in the diagnosis and treatment of concussions.

“We are very excited for this year's conference presentations. Especially with the advent of the State of Iowa's concussion/brain injury protocol for student athletes this past July,” says Carol Luth, Director of Cedar Rapids Vision In Motion. “Now is a great time for community members and professionals to learn more about how the whole body is affected by a concussion.”

Saturday's presentations will focus more on the eyes, and how to appropriately diagnose and treat vision disorders commonly associated with concussions/acquired brain injuries; as well as how to manage sports injuries in a family practice setting. Speakers include: Dr. Brian Meeker, MD; Dr. DeAnn Fitzgerald, OD; and the Cedar Rapids Vision In Motion Occupational Therapy Staff.

7 CEH's will be awarded for therapy professionals, athletic trainers and neuropsychologists for each day attended. Nurses will be awarded 7.8 CEU's for Friday and 8.1 CEU's for Saturday. All other professionals will be given CEH's per their board requirements. Cost to attend Friday's presentation only is $179 per person if registered before February 10, $199 if registered on February 10 or after, $98 for nurses and $70 per student/caregiver. Cost to attend Saturday's presentation only is $109 per person if registered before February 10, $129 if registered on February 10 or later, $81 for nurses and $50 per student/caregiver. Cost to attend both days is $288 per person if registered before February 10, $328 if registered on February 10 or later, $179 for nurses and $120 per student/caregiver. Registration includes continuing education credits, refreshments and lunch. Friday registration also includes a 200-page manual from ImPACT.

Please contact Cedar Rapids Vision In Motion with any questions at (319) 364-2311 or crvisioninmotion@gmail.com. To register, visit www.spandainc.com or call (319) 364-2311.

Event Details

What: “Training Your Brain to See Again” 4th Annual Continuing Education Conference

When: Friday, February 24, & Saturday, February 25; 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Where: Kirkwood Training & Outreach Services Center, 3375 Armar Dr., Marion, IA 52302

Why: To gain a better understanding of how to diagnose and treat a concussion/acquired brain injury; as well as what vision disorders and disturbances are commonly associated with them.

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