HeadStrong
HeadStrong is a concussion insurance program available to Iowa high school student-athletes participating in IHSAA and IGHSAU-sanctioned sports. It helps cover the cost of concussion assessment and treatment, helping families access appropriate care without the added financial barrier.
At Brekke Rehab, we help athletes and families navigate concussion recovery, from early identification and evaluation through Return-to-Learn and Return-to-Play.
If you have questions about your athlete’s symptoms, recovery, or using HeadStrong to access care, we’re here to help.
Contact Brekke Rehab with questions or to learn more about concussion services.
Your Athlete sustains a concussion in practice or during their game, what do you do next?
1. Remove from play
If a concussion is suspected, the athlete should come out of practice or competition immediately. No same-day return to play.
2. Get evaluated
Have the athlete evaluated by a licensed healthcare provider trained in concussion management, ideally the same day.
Early Identification and Early Treatment
Recognizing a concussion early and starting appropriate care can help athletes navigate recovery with confidence. Early identification means recognizing symptoms, removing the athlete from play, and getting the right evaluation. Early treatment focuses on individualized education, symptom management, gradual return to activity, and addressing factors that may contribute to prolonged symptoms.
The goal isn't to keep athletes inactive. It's to help them recover safely and return to the activities they enjoy.
Authorized Providers in Iowa to Evaluate
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Physicians (MD/DO)
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Physician assistants
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Chiropractors
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Advanced registered nurse practitioners (ARNPs)
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Nurses
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Physical therapists
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Occupational therapists
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Athletic trainers
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Doctors of psychology with specialty training in neuropsychology or concussion management
The provider must be licensed in Iowa and trained in the evaluation and management of concussions and brain injuries. For an athlete removed from play, Iowa's IHSAA/IGHSAU protocol requires evaluation and written medical clearance before returning to participation.
“Authorized to evaluate” under Iowa's school concussion law does not necessarily mean every listed provider has the same scope of practice for every aspect of diagnosis or treatment. The provider should be appropriately trained and practicing within their Iowa licensure scope.
Return to Learn and Return to Play
Iowa law requires return to learn prior to return to play
Return to Learn
A gradual return to school and cognitive activity after a concussion. Students may temporarily need adjustments such as reduced screen time, breaks, shortened assignments, or extra time to complete work. The goal is to gradually increase academic demands as symptoms improve.
Return to Play
A step-by-step progression back to sports and physical activity after a concussion. Activity starts light and gradually increases in intensity and sport-specific demands. The athlete should remain symptom-free at each stage and receive appropriate medical clearance before returning to full competition.
Medical Release for Return to Play
In Iowa, an athlete removed for a suspected concussion must be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider and receive written medical clearance before beginning the Return-to-Play process. Clearance starts the process, not an immediate return to competition.
When to Utilize HeadStrong
If your Iowa high school athlete sustains a concussion during an IHSAA-sanctioned practice or competition.
The initial claim/incident report should be submitted within 30 days of the injury.
HeadStrong may help cover assessment and treatment.
Why Submit a HeadStrong Claim?
Submit a HeadStrong claim as soon as possible, even if your athlete seems to be recovering well.
Concussion recovery can be unpredictable, and you may not know at the time of injury whether additional evaluation or treatment will be needed later.
Submitting the initial claim within the required 30-day timeframe helps keep coverage available if your athlete needs additional concussion-related care during recovery.
When in doubt, submit the claim.