Persons with Brain Injury and Family Members

• What is brain injury resource facilitation?

Brain injury resource facilitation helps persons with brain injury access information, services, and supports to make informed choices and reach their goals. In Missouri, brain injury resource facilitation is being delivered collaboratively and holistically by several state agencies and partners.

• How do I learn more?

Persons with brain injury are encouraged to start by contacting the Brain Injury Association of Missouri (BIA-MO) to learn about available services and to get coordinated referrals. They may be contacted at 1-800-444-6443.

• Where is MOBIRF (Missouri Brain Injury Resource Facilitation) located?

MOBIRF is not a program with a specific location. It is a network of state agencies in collaboration with BIA-MO and community partners to create easier connections to the supports needed for persons with brain injury to live and work in their communities. Getting connected to supports through MOBIRF can help you build a team of resources focused on your specific needs.

• Who are the core partners involved in MOBIRF?

At this time, MOBIRF’s core organizations include:

• Department of Health and Senior Services, Adult Brain Injury Program (DHSS-ABI)
• Brain Injury Association of Missouri (BIA-MO)
• Department of Mental Health, Division of Developmental Disabilities (DMHDD)
• Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) at the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE)

• Can I connect with MOBIRF in my town or city?

MOBIRF is growing throughout Missouri, and BIA-MO can help you learn what is available and where.

• What services are available to me?

All persons with brain injury may use BIA-MO support groups, survivor and family seminars, and recreational activities. Additional services, such as therapies, counseling, vocational training, supports for independence, community living and employment, etc., will depend on your specific needs and resources. You can get help with specific service suggestions by connecting with BIA-MO.

• How long am I able to participate through MOBIRF?

The length of the supports and services you receive will be based on your specific situation and needs. Connect with BIA-MO to get started.

• Will I need to pay for help from MOBIRF?

MOBIRF can help you get connected to the program services you need. Services within the specific programs may or may not require you to financially contribute. You will be provided information and support to make an informed decision about service options.

• How long will I need to wait for services I need?

While there may be a waitlist for some types of Missouri services, not all services will require waiting for an opening. BIA-MO can help you learn about services with and without possible wait times.

• I had a stroke, not a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Can I get help from MOBIRF?

Yes. There are Missouri services and supports available for all types of brain injury, not only TBI. BIA-MO can provide you with information to help you pick the right options for you.

• My injury happened many years ago. Can I get help from MOBIRF?

Yes. Whether you have recently experienced a brain injury or have been managing brain injury for many years, you can get help from MOBIRF.

• I am a family member. Can I get help from MOBIRF?

Yes. Family members can get assistance from BIA-MO needed to assist their loved ones with getting connected to the right types of support. Family members are often involved with Missouri services as an important source of support for persons with brain injury.

• There is a lot to learn about how Missouri assists persons with brain injury. Is there a resource I can go back to later when I want to learn more?

Yes. Missouri has an excellent resource called The Missouri Greenbook: Living with Brain Injury – a guide for survivors, families, and caregivers.

• What is the first step to get started?

By reaching out to BIA-MO (1-800-444-6443 or info@biamo.org), you can get connected to important Missouri programs for persons with brain injury.