Landon Sports Medicine

What is an Athletic Trainer?

Athletic training is practiced by athletic trainers, health care professionals who collaborate with physicians to optimize activity and participation of patients and clients. Athletic training encompasses the prevention, diagnosis, and intervention of emergency, acute, and chronic medical conditions involving impairment, functional limitations, and disabilities. Members of the NATA must agree to abide by the Association’s Code of Ethics. The Board of Certification Inc. requires that all credential holders abide by the Standards of Practice. ~www.nata.org

An Athletic trainer is an allied healthcare professional who meets the qualifications set by a state licensure and/or the Board of Certification, Inc. and practices athletic training under the direction of a physician.  
~Must have either a bachelor’s or master's degree from an accredited athletic training program
~Must pass a comprehensive exam before earning the ATC credential from the National Athletic Trainers Association Board of Certification (NATABOC)
~Must keep their knowledge and skills current by participating in continuing education 
~Must adhere to standards of professional practice set by the NATABOC
~Work Settings include schools, colleges, professional sports, clinics, hospitals, corporations, industry, military, performing arts.

Athletic trainers improve patient functional and physical outcomes:  Results from a nationwide Medical Outcomes Survey demonstrate that care provided by ATs effects a significant change in all outcome variables measured, with the greatest change in functional outcomes and physical outcomes. The investigation indicates that care provided by ATs generates a positive change in health-related quality of life patient outcomes. (Ref: Albohm MJ, Wilkerson GB. An outcomes assessment of care provided by certified athletic trainers. Journal of Rehabilitation Outcomes Measure 1999; 3 (3):51-56.)