1 answer
Paw
Student
Arden Hills, MN
1
Question
Updated
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What are some of the biggest challenges athletic trainers face daily or on occasion?
I am currently a fourth-year student majoring in Biokinetics: Exercise Science and hoping to attend grad school for Athletic Training. #Fall2022
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1 answer
Lauren Durante, MBA, MS, ATC, CEASIII
Athletic Trainer
1
Answer
Oregon, Wisconsin
Updated
Lauren’s Answer
Hi, I agree with Joseph. It does depend on the setting you are working. I spent the majority of my time in clinical and occupational settings.
In the clinic, establishing autonomy was the biggest challenge. I had to prove that I was much more than a tech, and over time I did, but it took quite some time to perform my own evaluation and manage my own caseload of patients. However, this may be changing now with ATCs having their NPI and insurance companies better recognizing our services as a trainer Allied Health Professional.
ATCs have significantly more autonomy in the occupational setting, but we are limited with treatment options based on resources and the need to follow OSHA guidelines for work-related injuries. However, this setting allows for more expansion of our professional skills, such as ergonomic training and injury prevention coaching. It also transitions into many more operations management, such as client relationship management, marketing, and public speaking.
I hope this helps. I recommend shadowing as many different settings as possible to get an idea of which one may be the best fit for you.
In the clinic, establishing autonomy was the biggest challenge. I had to prove that I was much more than a tech, and over time I did, but it took quite some time to perform my own evaluation and manage my own caseload of patients. However, this may be changing now with ATCs having their NPI and insurance companies better recognizing our services as a trainer Allied Health Professional.
ATCs have significantly more autonomy in the occupational setting, but we are limited with treatment options based on resources and the need to follow OSHA guidelines for work-related injuries. However, this setting allows for more expansion of our professional skills, such as ergonomic training and injury prevention coaching. It also transitions into many more operations management, such as client relationship management, marketing, and public speaking.
I hope this helps. I recommend shadowing as many different settings as possible to get an idea of which one may be the best fit for you.
I appreciate your answer! I've interned in a collegiate setting and just like you mentioned above I think I should shadow other settings to explore which location is the best fit for me. Once again, thank you for your insight!
Paw