If you have a suspected concussion you need to visit a General Practitioner (GP) for diagnosis and management so you can rest, recover and return to play or learning as safely and quickly as possible. Similarly, if you had a concussion, you must be cleared by a GP before you return to play. 

Please note:

• Concussion-related GP visits are fully subsidised
• Reduced stand-down periods are applicable to NZR CCI study participants and conditional on a completed baseline assessment and your GP’s clinical assessment.

Where can I find a GP?      
    

What should I do if a concussion GP is not listed my area?

If a concussion GP is not available in your area, contact your personal GP but keep your receipts so we can reimburse your GP visit.

What should I do between my concussion and visiting a GP?

It's important to know what to look for and what to do if you think a concussion has happened. Concussion symptoms can happen right away, or up to two days after the event.

What are Concussion red flags?

If a player appears to have any of the following symptoms, they must see a doctor right away:

• Neck pain
• Increasing confusion
• Repeated vomiting
• Seizures or convulsions
• Double vision
• Weakness or tingling/burning in arms or legs
• Decreasing levels of consciousness
• Bad or worsening headache
• Unusual behaviour changes

If there are no Red Flags but you think they might be concussed, make sure they:

• See a doctor
• Are with someone responsible and don't go home alone
• Do not drink alcohol or take drugs
• Do not drive
• Rest (no exercise, thinking tasks and screens)

To give players the best chance for a full recovery. it's important to follow best practice. All concussed players should follow the Graduated Return to Learn/Work