SPARCC is a Certified ImPACT® (Immediate Post-concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing) and Pediatric ImPACT® Consultation testing center. This means we have the education, training, and experience that come with completing the credentialed ImPACT and Pediatric ImPACT consultant program.
About ImPACT Concussion Testing
Pre-Injury Baseline Concussion Testing
ImPACT and Pediatric ImPACT tools set a baseline for normal functioning brain activities. They’re the most effective tools for comparing a person’s neurocognitive state before a concussion occurs. The computer-based Pediatric ImPACT and ImPACT tests take about 15-30 minutes to complete.
They look at and record many aspects of an athlete’s neurocognitive state, such as:
- Verbal memory
- Visual memory
- Processing speed
- Reaction time
- Attention
- Cognitive efficiency
The ImPACT computerized neurocognitive tests alone do not diagnose a concussion. Experts utilize these validated tools to help in the optimal management of concussions and head injuries. ImPACT is the most widely researched and utilized computerized neurocognitive test available. It is commonly utilized for student-athletes at all levels.
SPARCC advises baseline concussion testing for children:
- Ages 13 and under (middle school) — each year due to rapidly developing and changing cognitive capacity in younger children.
- Ages 14 and older (high school) — every one to two years.
SPARCC’s Baseline Concussion Testing
Baseline testing is done before an injury and includes:
- Pediatric or adolescent computerized neurocognitive test (ages 5 and up)
- Functional vision testing
- Vestibular balance testing
Baseline Concussion tests are self-pay only and cannot be combined with insurance. However, you may submit to your insurance company for reimbursement.
Post-Injury Neurocognitive Testing
When an athlete does suffer a concussion, post-injury neurocognitive testing and comprehensive care including an Individualized Cognitive Action Plan (ICAP) for school are crucial.
Our concussion experts use the baseline data to compare to post-injury cognitive scores and identify specifics areas of cognitive deficits. Academic accommodations are then targeted to these deficits in the Individualized Cognitive Action Plan (ICAP). Additional brain function tests may also be conducted to better manage each athlete’s unique case.
