Treatment paths and costs for young adults with acquired brain injury in the United Kingdom

Primary objectives: To identify the health and social care services used by young adults aged 18–25 years with acquired brain

injury (ABI) and the costs of these supports.

Research methods: A review of existing literature and databases and contact with academics and stakeholders working with

people with ABI.

Main outcomes and results: The likely care pathways of young adults with ABI were mapped over a notional 1-year period

after presentation at hospital accident and emergency departments. Most young adults with ABI will use minimal health and

social care support following injury but those with subsequent disabilities may cost the health and social care budget in

excess of £47.2 million per year.

Conclusion: Lack of available data mean the service use and cost estimates draw from a range of sources. However, the costs

may under-estimate the true impact on budgets as incidence rates may be higher than identified and conservative values

were selected for unit costs. The model estimates the cost of treatment and support as provided today, but high levels of

unmet need remain.

Keywords: ABI, young adults, care pathways, service use, cost