WHAT IS AN ATHLETIC TRAINER?

Athletic Trainers (ATs) are highly educated and skilled health care professionals who are recognized by the American Medical Association (AMA) as allied-healthcare professionals and collaborate with and work under the direction of physicians as prescribed by state licensure statutes. The AMA recommends Athletic Trainers in every high school to keep America's youth safe and healthy.

The services provided by ATs comprise prevention, emergency care, clinical diagnosis, therapeutic intervention and rehabilitation of injuries and medical conditions. Certified Athletic Trainers have earned a degree from an accredited athletic training curriculum. These accredited programs include formal instruction in areas such as injury/illness prevention, first aid and emergency care, assessment of injury/illness, human anatomy and physiology, therapeutic modalities, and nutrition. Classroom learning is enhanced through clinical education experiences. The Certified Athletic Trainer has demonstrated knowledge and skill in six practice areas or domains:

• Prevention
• Clinical Evaluation and Diagnosis
• Immediate Care
• Treatment, Rehabilitation, and Reconditioning
• Organization and Administration
• Professional Responsibility