Zachary W Bevilacqua, Nicole Mucica, Kaitlyn Bjelko, Christina Finn
Total sample mean and median feasibility scores were 7.88 and 8, respectively (0-10 scale). Seventy percent of participants reported the ability to accommodate a concussion in <3 days, with 89% accomplishing this task when provided 4 days. Limited student reporting (28%) and streamlined communication with medical providers (15%) were most frequently noted as variables impeding the feasibility of this task. No significant associations were found between feasibility scores and location (p = 0.840) or institution size (p = 0.094). No significant associations were found between perceived barriers and location (p = 0.091) or size of institution (p = 0.635).
INTRODUCTION: Current recommendations for concussed college students promote rapid implementation of accommodations (<3 days), however, it is unknown whether college accessibility staff find this recommendation feasible. Thus, this research aimed to gather the perceptions of accessibility staff regarding implementation of accommodations for students who have sustained concussions.
METHODS: A cross-sectional design was used to distribute a nationwide survey to accessibility staff working on college campuses (n = 87). Distribution methods included a nationwide listserv along with hand searching institutional websites. Survey recruitment took place electronically across the United States between 1/2025-7/2025.
RESULTS: Total sample mean and median feasibility scores were 7.88 and 8, respectively (0-10 scale). Seventy percent of participants reported the ability to accommodate a concussion in <3 days, with 89% accomplishing this task when provided 4 days. Limited student reporting (28%) and streamlined communication with medical providers (15%) were most frequently noted as variables impeding the feasibility of this task. No significant associations were found between feasibility scores and location (p = 0.840) or institution size (p = 0.094). No significant associations were found between perceived barriers and location (p = 0.091) or size of institution (p = 0.635).
DISCUSSION: Most sampled accessibility staff across the Unted States find rapid (<3d) accommodations to be a feasible task, supporting our understanding and confidence in recent RTLU guidance. These data reveal an existing capacity to perform RTLU recommendations, encouraging feasibility.