Injury Center Closed

JOHNSTOWN, CAMBRIA COUNTY--- The Department of Defense made the decision to close two of the network sites of the Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center, one of which is in Johnstown.

The decision was made in June 2013. On the center's website it was stated that it was not currently treating patients, no service members care was impacted.

The center was started through earmarks from Congressman John Murtha. The neurorehabilitation site treated service members experiencing ongoing symptoms from a traumatic brain injury (TBI) and, simultaneously, another condition that might include behavioral health issues.

In a statement online: "Because the facilities were unique and intensive, they handled a small number of patients and incurred high costs compared to other facilities. As the contract for the two sites expired and costs were measured, including those for a necessary information technology upgrade at each site, the DOD decided that other existing facilities could provide this care for service members."

30 people were laid off as a result of the center closing.

Senator Bob Casey released a statement about the closing to WTAJ News.

"The Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center provided award-winning treatment for our military and veterans with brain injuries with professionalism and care.Recently, the Defense Department made the unfortunate decision to close the facility. Senator Casey's office weighed in with the Defense Department in an effort to continue the Center's efforts on behalf of our region's military and veterans. Moving forward, Senator Casey will urge DOD and the VA consider alternate employment opportunities for the staff at the center to retain this highly skilled workforce."

WTAJ News also reached out to Congressman Keith Rothfus for reaction to DOD's decision.

"I have asked DOD for more information about this decision, in particular its impact on our veterans and active duty military personnel in Western Pennsylvania and the employees who serve them. I continue to advocate that Johnstown is a great place to live and work. We must all work together to promote that message far and wide to build sustainable industries and jobs in our community."

Patients who would have used the Johnstown facility will now go to either Pittsburgh or Walter Reed.

Original post:
Injury Center Closed