Grand Falls-Windsor, NL – Hockey Newfoundland and Labrador (HNL) and the Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Association (NLMA) have partnered to increase awareness about concussions among the public and medical practitioners of the province.

The initiative is being spearheaded by Dr. Jared Butler, a family physician at Killick Health Services in Grand Falls-Windsor. Dr. Butler is the Medical Director for HNL and serves on the NLMA Board of Directors. He, along with HNL and the NLMA, is working to promote awareness of concussions and a healthy return to play and school or work for those who have suffered from a concussion.

“The partnership is aimed at reducing brain injuries in team sports within Newfoundland and Labrador,” said Jack Lee, President of Hockey NL.

“Having Dr. Butler take a keen interest on this important issue, and having the NLMA supporting our association on the awareness of concussions, will enhance our player safety objectives,” said Lee.

Dr. Butler has agreed to serve as an expert resource for families and patients who may have questions or concerns about concussions. He is also available to physicians in the province who would like input on concussion cases.

“Strides have been made in recent years for the treatment of this condition. Our hope is that by focusing our collective efforts we can begin to raise awareness about how to prevent and manage concussions,” said Dr. Butler.

“Together we envision a province where all children and youth have access to safe team sport activities.”

Concussion Awareness apps

Hockey Canada has recently developed two new apps for smartphones and tablet devices to help to increase awareness about concussions and protocol for a player’s return to play. The Hockey Canada Concussion Awareness apps are available in both English and French, with versions for adults and kids. The apps focus on prevention, symptoms, rules and respect. The Concussion Awareness for Kids app teaches children how to prevent concussions in an easy to follow format that includes an interactive game and videos. The apps are available for Blackberry, iOS (Apple) and Android devices and can be downloaded free on several websites and platforms including Blackberry’s App World, iTunes, Google Play Store and www.hockeycanada.ca.

Media Contact:

Jonathan Carpenter

Director, Communications and Public Affairs

Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Association

Tel: (709) 726-7424, ext. 303
Cell: (709) 691-0928
Email: [email protected]