How does the evaluation process work?

CETRI offers advanced clinical evaluation, evidence based treatments, and research driven therapies designed to improve patient outcomes & support long term recovery.

Will my insurance cover care at CETRI?

Some CETRI services may be covered by insurance, while others are not. Appointments conducted at our affiliated medical facilities—such as University of Chicago, UIC, and Shirley Ryan AbilityLab—are typically billed as standard physician visits and may qualify for insurance coverage depending on your plan. We recommend contacting our team directly to verify benefits and better understand your coverage options for electrical injury evaluation and treatment.

What should I expect during my visit?

During your visit to CETRI, you will undergo a comprehensive, multidisciplinary evaluation focused on the long-term effects of electrical injury. Our team of specialists assesses neurological, physical, and cognitive symptoms to develop a personalized care plan. Each appointment is designed to provide in-depth insights and guide effective treatment recommendations tailored to your needs.

Will I need to travel for evaluation or treatment?

Yes, CETRI evaluations take place at multiple locations in Chicago, Illinois. We regularly work with out-of-state patients seeking specialized electrical injury care and are happy to provide hotel recommendations and travel guidance to make your stay as convenient as possible.

May I bring a family member or support person to my visit?

Absolutely. We encourage patients to bring a family member, caregiver, or support person to their appointment if they’d like.

Is there a time limit after an electrical injury to receive treatment?

No, there is no time limit for seeking evaluation or treatment at CETRI. We have evaluated patients shortly after injury as well as individuals who experienced electrical injuries 20 or more years ago. While early intervention is recommended for the best outcomes, we welcome patients at any stage of their recovery.

How long does evaluation take?

The full CETRI evaluation typically takes place over one week, from Monday through Friday. We recommend arriving on Sunday to allow time to rest and prepare before beginning the evaluation process.

How long does the evaluation process take?

Appointments are generally scheduled about one month in advance. The in-person evaluation lasts approximately one week. After completion, our team prepares a detailed report with findings and recommendations, which is typically delivered within 6–8 weeks.

Electrical Injury Education

Empowering communities, healthcare providers, and industries with knowledge to prevent electrical injuries and improve outcomes.

Educational Mission

Empowering Clinicians & Patients Through Education

CETRI is dedicated to reducing electrical injuries through comprehensive education and training programs.

Education is a cornerstone of injury prevention. By sharing our expertise and research findings, we aim to create safer homes, workplaces, and communities.

Our programs serve diverse audiences—from medical professionals seeking specialized training to families learning basic electrical safety principles.

Through evidence-based education, we empower individuals and organizations to recognize hazards, implement preventive measures, and respond effectively to electrical emergencies.

Key Research Areas

Advancing Electrical Injury Research and Care

Our multidisciplinary research program addresses critical questions in electrical trauma care.

Healthcare Providers

Medical Professional Training

Comprehensive educational programs for physicians, nurses, and healthcare providers on electrical injury assessment and treatment.

Employers & Workers

Workplace Safety Programs

Customized training for industries with electrical hazards including construction, utilities, and manufacturing sectors.

General Public

Public Safety Education

Community outreach programs teaching electrical safety awareness and injury prevention for families and schools.

Education Areas

Comprehensive Topics in Electrical Injury Care

Our curriculum addresses critical safety topics across multiple domains.

Home Safety

Workplace Safety

Emergency Response

Electrical Safety Foundation International

A 501 (c) (3) organization dedicated exclusively to promoting electrical safety in the home, school, and workplace.

National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)

NFPA provides resources on electrical hazards.

Educational Resources

Radiation & Electrical Safety Resources

Free downloadable materials and tools to support electrical safety education.

Understanding Electrical Injury

Electrical injuries are more than surface burns. Electric shock can damage nerves, muscles, tissues, and internal organs depending on the strength of the current, the path it takes through the body, and the length of exposure. Even low-voltage household shocks may cause serious internal injury without visible burns.

High-voltage accidents and lightning strikes can lead to severe tissue damage, disability, or limb loss, while lower-voltage shocks may cause painful muscle spasms and prolonged contact with the electrical source. Long-term effects can include chronic pain, fatigue, numbness, balance issues, memory problems, and psychological trauma.

Ongoing research focuses on how electrical forces disrupt cell membranes and tissue function, helping improve treatment and rehabilitation for electrical injury survivors.