Concussion

A GUIDE TO CONCUSSION TESTING

Base Line Tests

• All Jockeys need to complete a baseline test every year (between January and December).
• There is a network of regional testing centres (Please see table below).
• The Jockey’s licence renewal will not be delayed in relation to a new concussion being carried out.
• If you are unable to attend a booked baseline test, you must cancel your appointment by notifying the centre at least 24 hours in advance. Thereafter, all appointments will be charged to the Jockey at the full fee (£80.00).

If a Jockey suffers concussion on the Racecourse

• They will be automatically suspended for six clear days and a red entry will be placed on his medical record.
• If, for example, the first day of suspension is on a Wednesday, they cannot ride again until the following Wednesday at the earliest.

Return to Race Riding

• If a Jockey wishes to be considered for an immediate return after the six-day suspension i.e. they have suffered no other injury and is not experiencing headaches, they should do the following:
• Contact Dr. Turner’s secretary, Helen in the Medical Department at the BHA, (0207 152 0138) on the first business day after the fall if symptom-free. Explain that they wish her to arrange an appointment for a re-test and neurological review. The Jockey should not book an appointment their self.
• The Jockey should only take the test when they are completely symptom free (i.e. no longer suffering headaches), as they may fail and be sidelined for an even longer period. So, if the Jockey does not feel well enough, they should wait a few days and then ask for a test – they will get back quicker if passing the test first time by waiting that extra day.
• At the review, the Jockey will complete the baseline test again and the result will be reviewed by a specialist (usually on the same day)
• When the BHA is in possession of the Jockey’s results, they will inform the Jockey either:
  • a. They are able to return to race-riding the following day
  • b. They are suspended for a further 10-14 days. A further examination will be carried out after another 10-14 days.
  • c. The BHA requires a further review to ascertain whether a new baseline needs to be established. It is natural for a baseline to naturally lower as we get older and therefore although the Jockey may not have any problems, they may just not reach the old level at the re-test. A new level will be then established once the BHA is satisfied that this is the reason behind the results. This unfortunately can delay the process.

CONCUSSION CENTRES