Atlanta rehab hospital to provide free care to some vets

1:00 AM

Posted: Tuesday, March 11, 2008

ATLANTA (AP) -- An Atlanta rehabilitation hospital will provide free care to wounded military veterans who need brain or spinal cord injury services that aren't covered by the government, hospital officials said Monday.

The Shepherd Center, which treats spinal cord and brain injuries, has promised to provide a range of testing, care and rehabilitation services. It's part of a philanthropic effort driven by Bernie Marcus, the co-founder of Home Depot Inc.

"These people are putting their lives on the line every day, and they deserve the best treatment possible," said Marcus, who joined Shepherd Center officials in a Monday announcement.

An estimated 10 to 20 percent of troops leaving Iraq have signs of concussion, or mild traumatic brain injury, Shepherd Center officials said, citing Army statistics.

The injuries are often caused by explosions. Symptoms can include headaches, confusion, irritability, dizziness and nausea. Problems with sleeping, memory and concentration also occur.

The military routinely takes care of severe and obvious head injuries, but in some cases long-term follow-up services may not be provided. Soldiers with less severe and obvious injuries may also have trouble getting a full range of care, Shepherd Center officials said.

The new initiative will cover additional services, including brain scans and psychological evaluations, rehabilitation, bathroom equipment and even canes.

There is no set budget for the so-called SHARE Initiative. Marcus said he'll start paying bills, and hopes other donors and medical centers will join in.

"We'll try to take care of as many people as we can," Marcus said.

Also joining the initiative is Humana Military Healthcare Services, a contractor that manages the government's TRICARE health insurance program for military service members and their dependents in nine Southeastern states and part of Texas.