Referrals
In certain situation, an individual may require treatment from or consultation with a variety of both medical and nonmedical services or personnel other than the athletic trainer or team physicians. When reffering an athlete for evaluation or consultation, the athletic trainer must be aware of the community-based services available and the insurance or a managed care plan coverage available for that athlete. Common referrals included the following:
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School Health Services:
These range from a department operating with one or two nurses and a physician available on a part time basis to
an elaborate setup comprised of a full complement of nursing services with a staff of full time medical specialists.
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Nurse:
The nurse is not usually responsible for the recognition and management of sports injuries. However they are
knowledgeable about general medical conditions and may work under the direction of the physician.
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Physician:
A number of physicians with a variety of specializations can aid in treating the patient.
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Dentist:
Dental consultant for the team and should be available for first aid and emergency care as well as dental needs.
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Podiatrist:
Many podiatrists are trained in surgical procedures, foot biomechanics, and the fitting and construction of orthotic
devices for the shoe.
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Physician's Assistant:
PA's are trained to assume some of the responsibilities for patient care tradiationally done by physician.
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Physical Therapist:
PT's help assist with rehabilitation of injuries and chronic problems.
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Strength and Conditioning Specialities:
Many college and universities and some high schols employ full time strength and conditioning coaching to advise
athletes on training and conditioning programs.
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Biomechanist:
An individual who possesses some expertise in the analysis of human motion who can be a great aid to the coaches
as well as the athletic training staff.
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Exercise Physiologist:
These specialists can give input to the athletic training staff regarding training and conditioning techniques, body
composition analysis, and nutrition.
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Nutritionist:
Some large athletic programs employ a nutrionist to help plan eating programs or assest with athletes who need
special nutritional counseling.
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Sports Psychologist:
This person can advise and consult athletes with psychological issues they may encounter.
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Massage Therapist:
Many massage therapists are nationally certified in massage therapy, while others are required by their states to
pass a certification exam.
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Occupational Therapist:
OT's work with patients who have conditions that are mentally, physically, developmentally, or emotionally, disabling
to improve their ability to perform tasks in their daily living and work environments.
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Emergency Medical Technician & Paramedics:
EMT's and Paramedics help with acute care on the field and during transport to the hospital if needed.
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Sports Chiropractor:
DC's make use of spinal extremity manipulation techniques to treat most muscoskeletal conditions.
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Orthotist/Prothetist:
ROT's custom fit, design, and construct braces, orthotics, and support devices based on physician prescriptions.
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Social Worker:
Occasionally athletes or their families need a referral for social support services.
(Prentice, 2010)
