Note: The Texas Brain Injury Advisory Council (TX BIAC) has replaced the Traumatic Brain Injury Advisory Council.
The TX BIAC addresses strategic planning, policy, rules and services related to preventing brain injury and providing rehabilitation and long-term services and supports for people who have survived brain injuries to improve their quality of life and ability to function independently in the home and community.
The TX BIAC seeks input from brain injury survivors, family members and caregivers, and professionals. The Council is focused on reducing risks, promoting prevention and using effective disease management to reduce the incidence and prevalence of brain injuries. The Council also strives to make it possible for people who have survived a brain injury to achieve and maintain a high quality of life by accessing the services and supports they need as they heal, and return to their homes and communities.
Advisory Council Members
- Jane Boutte, Chair
- Christi Wilson, Vice-Chair
- Dr. Kenneth Podell, Legislative Committee Chair
- Patti Foster, Services and Supports Committee Chair
- Janine Mazabob, Education and Awareness Committee Co-Chair
- Dr. Deana Adams, Education and Awareness Committee Co-Chair
- Rose Pelzel, Membership Committee Chair
- Vanessa Alba (HHS Region 7)
- Jim Batchelor (HHS Region 4)
- Nancy Calvin (HHS Region 10)
- Glyn S. Crane (HHS Region 4)
- Stephany Juarez (HSS Region 8)
- Natalie Loya (HSS Region 10)
- Kimberly H. Oas (HHS Region 7)
- Larry Swift (HHS Region 7)
- Dr. Charles Walker (HHS Region 4)
Advisory Committee Composition
The Texas Health and Human Services Commission executive commissioner appoints TX BIAC members to serve a term of 3 years. The TX BIAC includes representatives of each of the following:
- One representative from acute hospital trauma units.
- One representative from post-acute rehabilitation facilities.
- One representative of a long-term care facility that serves persons who have survived a brain injury.
- One healthcare practitioner/service provider who has specialized training/interest in the prevention of brain injuries and/or the care, treatment, and rehabilitation of persons who have survived a brain injury.
- One representative of an institution of higher education engaged in research that impacts persons who have survived a brain injury.
- Four family members actively involved in the care of loved ones who have sustained a brain injury representing diverse ethnic/cultural groups and geographic regions of Texas.
- Four service recipients who have survived a brain injury representing diverse ethnic/cultural groups and geographic regions of Texas.
- One transition age youth service recipient who has survived a brain injury and is currently between the ages of 18 and 26.
- One representative from the stroke committee of the Governor's EMS & Trauma Advisory Council or other stakeholder group with a focus on stroke
In addition to the appointed members of the TX BIAC, volunteers are an integral part of the Council. Volunteers participate on committees and support the Council in reaching its goals. If you would like more information about volunteering with TX BIAC please contact Princess Katana at oabi@hhsc.state.tx.us.