What It Is About
Dr. Raquel C. Gardner’s transfer to the Joseph Sagol Neuroscience Center at Sheba Medical Center has brought significant improvements to Israel’s approach toward diagnosing and treating Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) among soldiers. Reflecting on her experience in the U.S., Gardner is now leading initiatives in Israel to address TBI cases exacerbated by the ongoing conflict with Hamas.
Why It Matters
In the line of duty, Israel Defense Force (IDF) soldiers are exposed to situations resulting in TBI or concussions, often called ‘invisible injuries’ due to their subtlety. Identifying and treating TBIs promptly is crucial not only for the immediate health of soldiers but for their long-term well-being, reducing the possibility of persistent neuropsychiatric symptoms. Gardner’s work is foundational in pioneering proper TBI protocols within the Israeli military and medical framework.
The Issue At Hand
TBI has emerged as a significant concern within military and veteran populations globally, typically resulting from concussions sustained in combat. Israel, engaged in a conflict of survival, faces the challenge of effectively recognizing and managing these injuries among soldiers, ensuring they receive the care necessary to heal both physically and psychologically.
Dr. Gardner’s Approach
Beginning her mission shortly after the outbreak of the latest conflict with Hamas, Gardner instantaneously set forth establishing a comprehensive wartime TBI program at Sheba Medical Center. Benefiting from her extensive background and research on TBIs in the U.S., she successfully adapted and piloted screening tools and therapeutic protocols suited for Israeli soldiers, ensuring swift diagnosis and treatment strategies.
Innovative Diagnostics and Education
Under Gardner’s guidance, Sheba Medical Center launched an initiative employing breakthrough diagnostic tools, including deploying blood tests capable of identifying TBI markers with high specificity. This method has been instrumental in differentiating between nervous shock and TBI, allowing medical professionals to tailor their treatment approaches with greater accuracy.
Furthermore, educating soldiers and medical staff about TBI symptoms and management has been paramount. Emphasis on proper recuperation, including addressing sleep disturbances common among those with TBI, highlights the comprehensive approach toward healing Gardner advocates.
Global Insights, Local Impact
By leveraging her international networks and innovations in the field, Gardner not only elevates Israel’s capacity to address TBIs within its military ranks but also sets a model for other countries grappling with similar challenges. This collaborative and forward-thinking strategy aims not just at recovery but at enhancing the resilience and readiness of Israel’s forces amidst ongoing threats.
Future Goals
As the Sheba Medical Center continues to refine its strategies for dealing with TBIs, the ultimate goal is to standardize these practices across the IDF and beyond, ensuring that soldiers facing the invisible wounds of war are met with the understanding, care, and support they need to integrate back into their roles in society confidently.
Dr. Raquel C. Gardner’s relentless pursuit of excellence in the field of neuroscience has thus become a beacon of hope, not only advancing Israel’s medical capabilities but also strengthening the fabric of its defense by safeguarding the health and well-being of its soldiers.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.