Commissioner Wanser: CRS Program Ready to Provide Service to More Texans with Traumatic Brain and Spinal Cord Injuries

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 24, 2012

(AUSTIN)— The Comprehensive Rehabilitation Services (CRS) program at the Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services (DARS) has received an estimated $8.6 million in additional funding for fiscal year 2012 and will be able to serve more Texans than previously estimated.  CRS provides critical rehabilitation services to eligible Texans who have experienced a traumatic brain injury or spinal cord injury and need intensive therapies to help them live independently in their communities.

The 82ndTexas Legislature increased the percentage share of dedicated revenues that DARS may use to provide CRS services. DARS estimates 300 Texans could be served with this additional funding over the course of a full year.

DARS Commissioner Debra Wanser said, “While we do have a good start in reaching our goal to serve more people, we want to make sure Texans who need our help are aware of the program. The CRS waiting list is currently very short, with wait times less than one month. We are pleased people who have applied do not have to wait for services; however, we know that many people who could benefit from the services in the CRS program may not know about the program.”

Texans who have a family member with a traumatic brain injury or spinal cord injury which has affected their ability to perform daily activities are encouraged to apply to the CRS program. Eligibility and application information is available by calling the DARS toll-free hotline at 1-800-628-5115 or by sending an email to DARS.Inquiries@dars.state.tx.us.

More information about eligibility criteria, the kinds of therapies provided by the CRS program and locations of CRS providers around Texas are online at http://www.dars.state.tx.us/drs/crs.shtml.

Traumatic brain injury and spinal cord professionals may also refer people to the CRS program simply by calling the DARS toll-free hotline and providing the individual’s contact information.  Afterward, a CRS counselor will contact the person or family with the steps to apply for services and to answer any questions.

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For Media Inquiries: Paul Nixon
Phone: (512) 377-0630
Email: paul.nixon@dars.state.tx.us.