An Overview of The Profession of Athletic Training

What is a Profession? Three components Clinical Practice Education Research

Clinical Practice Application of skills specific to Athletic Training –Hands on application of prevention, recognition and evaluation, immediate care, and treatment and rehabilitation of physically active individuals BOC examination

Milestones in Athletic Training Certification Decision to begin certifying athletic trainers External recognition of the BOC Incorporation of the NATA- BOC Now - BOC is separate entity from NATA

Education Formulation and transmission of a particular body of knowledge NATA Education Council –Educational competencies –Psychomotor skills –Clinical proficiencies

Evolution of AT Education st AT curriculum model approved by NATA st undergraduate AT curriculum approved by NATA st graduate curriculum approved by NATA NATA resolution requiring AT curriculum major, or equivalent, approved by NATA AT recognized by AMA as an allied health profession st entry level ATEP accredited by AMA CAHEA Mid-90’s - CAAHEP CAATE

Research Systematic examination and testing of a particular discipline’s methods and principles. Scholarship = Research “Scholarship is what delineates a profession from a trade.” –Knight, Ingersoll (1998)

Why is Scholarship Important to Athletic Training Our standing as professionals is enhanced. Standard of care provided is improved. Our reputation, which is determined by what others see (or fail to see) in writing, is improved. Change and progress will come because we focus on our problems rather than waiting for others to give us answers. We gain prestige as others look to us for knowledge Our claim as authorities on health care for the physically active is enhanced.

What Does All This Mean to Me, The Athletic Training Student?

Evolution of Research in Athletic Training Journal of Athletic Training NATA Research and Education Foundation National and Regional Meetings –Free Communication Sessions