Traumatic head and spinal cord injuries are nothing short of devastating. After injuries like these, individuals often need outside assistance to live their best lives. You could be eligible for life-changing services through the Traumatic Head and Spinal Cord Injury (THSCI) Trust Fund Program, so it’s good that you’re here. Keep reading to learn more, including the types of services available, who’s eligible, and how to apply.
What is the THSCI Trust Fund Program?
The THSCI trust fund is a program that provides necessary services to victims of traumatic head and spinal cord injuries. It aims to enhance the lives of affected individuals by granting them access to services that increase their independence and enable them to live independently in their communities. Over 500 survivors received services in 2022.
How is the Program Funded?
Interestingly, the program is funded by fees and surcharges assessed on Louisiana drivers ticketed for reckless driving, DUI or DWI, and speeding. The funds are collected and deposited into the State Treasury and used as needed, depending on the program’s financial need. Over $1,000,000 was collected in 2022 from violations and used to fund the program.
Services Available Through the THSCI Trust Fund Program
Now, let’s look into some specifics – what assistance could you receive? Here are some of the services THSCI trust fund beneficiaries receive according to need and expected improvement in functioning:
- Transportation to get to non-emergency appointments.
- Medications.
- Modifications for environmental accessibility.
- Medical supplies and durable medical equipment (DME).
- Medical evaluations.
- Post-acute medical care rehabilitation.
- Personal care attendant (PCA) services.
Participants in the program can receive up to $15,000 worth of services over the course of a year or up to $50,000 total per individual.
Could You Be Eligible for the THSCI Program?
Just because you have a traumatic head injury or spinal cord injury doesn’t mean that you’re automatically entitled to THSCI program benefits. So, who is eligible? Here are the eligibility criteria:
- You have a traumatic head or spinal cord injury that meets Louisiana Department of Health definitions. Find the definitions on this page. Your treating physician must sign off on your diagnosis.
- You must be a Louisiana resident.
- You must have been in Louisiana when you were injured and received treatment for the injury.
- There should be a reasonable expectation (on the part of your treating physician) that your level of functionality would improve with services from the THSCI trust fund program.
- You’ve exhausted all other LA Medicaid and Medicare services.
- You have completed an application to the THSCI program.
Even if you believe you meet all of the above qualifications, the best way to know whether you’re eligible is to go through the application process.
How to Apply for Services
To apply for services through the THSCI trust fund program, call 1-888-891-9441. The staff will get you started on the application process. They can also answer any questions you may have about the trust fund program.
So, there you have it – everything you should know about the THSCI trust fund program. We hope you found all the information you were looking for, and we wish you the best as you seek services to enrich your life.
