To effectively answer this question, two other questions must be answered first… simply, What is an ATC? and Who makes up the Sports Medicine Team?
An ATC (Certified Athletic Trainer) is an Allied Health Care Professional that has graduated from an accredited Athletic Training education program culminating in either a Bachelors or Masters degree. Such programs include courses in anatomy, physiology, emergency management of injury/ illness, evaluation of musculoskeletal/ neurological/ organ systems, therapeutic exercise, modalities and nutrition. In addition, Athletic Training graduates must pass the National Athletic Training Associations Board of Certification exam and, in some states, obtain a state license. The intense classroom, clinical internships and certification process make the ATC uniquely qualified to care for injured athletes whether they are recreational, professional, tactical or industrial.
The Sports Medicine Team can be broken up into two groups, the primary team and the secondary team. The primary team is directly responsible for the care of the injured athlete. In addition to the ATC and athlete, the team is comprised of the Physician, Physical Therapist, Strength and Conditioning staff and any other involved healthcare provider. The secondary team, which is indirectly responsible for the injured athlete’s care, includes family members, coaching staff, teammates, friends and in some cases, school administration. The ATC’s role is to act as the coordinator for the entire Sports Medicine Team. They have the distinct advantage of seeing the athlete everyday. Being at the center, ATCs have an indepth knowledge of the athlete’s injury, where the athlete is in the healing process and what the biomechanical demands of the athlete’s sport are. This allows for effective communication amongst the entire Sports Medicine Team and ensures quintessential management of the athlete and provides for a safe return to play.
Learn more about bringing a Marathon Sports Medicine program to your school or organization.