ALATA - Alabama Athletic Trainers' Association

ALABAMA ATHLETIC TRAINING LICENSURE ACT

On May 13, 1994 the Governor of Alabama signed a historical bill into law that is known as the Alabama Athletic Training Licensure Act. The Alabama Athletic Training Licensure Act promotes public protection by having qualified persons licensed as athletic trainers, title protection and sets standards known as rules and regulations by which any licensed athletic trainer in the state of Alabama must abide. Prior to this act there was no Alabama statute specifically providing for the regulation and licensure of athletic training. Under present law this act provides for the regulation and licensure of athletic trainers and prescribes certain continuing educational requirements for athletic trainers in the state of Alabama. This act also provides for an athletic trainers' board, powers and duties; provides for a fund and appropriation; and prescribes fines and penalties for violations of this act.

DEFINITION OF A LICENSED ATHLETIC TRAINER

Any person licensed by the Alabama Board of Athletic Trainers as an athletic trainer and who practices athletic training on an athlete under the direction or referral, or both, of a licensed physician after meeting the requirements of the act and rules and regulations. Licensed athletic trainers follow protocols approved jointly by the State Board of Medical Examiners and the Alabama Board of Athletic Trainers.

ALABAMA BOARD OF ATHLETIC TRAINERS

The Alabama Board of Athletic Trainers regulates the profession of athletic training within the state. The Board is composed of nine members; three physicians appointed by the Medical Association of the State of Alabama and six licensed athletic trainers appointed by the Alabama Athletic Trainers' Association.

NATABOC CERTIFIED ATHLETIC TRAINERS

Certified athletic trainers are recognized by the American Medical Association as allied healthcare providers. Through their advanced educational background they are able to provide the utmost professional care possible, early evaluation and treatment of athletic injuries, and proper medical referral. Athletic trainers not only provide quality healthcare but they also educate athletes in prevention of injuries. Therefore the standard for licensure in the state of Alabama is NATABOC certification. This nationally accredited board examination ensures minimum standards for entry level athletic trainers.

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Required courses in undergraduate studies as outlined by the National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA) (including health, human anatomy, kinesiology, biomechanics, human physiology, physiology of exercise, basic and advanced athletic training, first aid, and CPR).

Practical experience under the direct supervision of a NATABOC certified athletic trainer.

Baccalaureate degree---accredited college/university.

Successful completion of a three part certification examination (written, oral practical, and written simulation) as set forth by the National Athletic Trainers' Association Board of Certification (NATABOC).

Continuing Education Units (80 CEU's in a 3 year reporting period --- 80 contact hours)

There are colleges and universities in Alabama that have approved athletic training curriculums. These settings provide an environment for students to learn the fundamentals necessary to become proficient certified athletic trainers.

DOMAINS OF ATHLETIC TRAINING

These domains are categorized according to the major tacks comprising the role of the certified athletic trainer. There domains have been identified as those necessary to be effective in functioning as a certified athletic trainer.

SETTINGS OF EMPLOYMENT FOR ATHLETIC TRAINERS

National Athletic Trainers' Association, as a leader in health care for the physically active, believes that the prevention and treatment of injures to student-athletes is a priority. The recognition and treatment of injures to student-athletes must be immediate. The medical delivery system for injured student-athletes needs a coordinator within the local school community who will facilitate the prevention, recognition, treatment and reconditioning of sports related injuries. Therefore, it is the position of the National Athletic Trainers' Association that all high schools should provide the services of a certified athletic trainer (ATC) to student athletes.

As a qualified health care professional, understanding the nature, severity and management of injures properly prepares the licensed athletic trainer in effective communication and guidance between both parents and coaches.

The presence of a licensed athletic trainer serves as a worth beyond the cost to a school, coach, parents and above all athletes. Athletic trainers have a responsibility to provide expert care and management of sports injuries to all those involved. This responsibility can help reduce the possibility of complications of even the most minor of injuries.