Are athletic trainers considered doctors?

ATs work under the direction of physicians, as prescribed by state licensure statutes. ATs are highly qualified, multi-skilled health care professionals, and are under the allied health professions category as defined by Health Resources Services Administration (HRSA) and Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

Are athletic trainers healthcare professionals?

According to the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA), athletic trainers are highly qualified, multiskilled health care professionals who provide primary care, injury and illness prevention, wellness promotion and education, emergent care, examination and clinical diagnosis, therapeutic intervention and …

What type of doctor treats athletes?

Sports Medicine Professionals

• Sports medicine doctors (primary care)
• Sports medicine doctors (orthopedic)
• Certified athletic trainers.
• Physical therapists.
• Chiropractors.
• Podiatrists.
• Other sports medicine professionals.

What is the scope of practice for an athletic trainer?

Scope of practice Providing athletic training services. Applying tape, bandages, and braces to protect or prevent injuries. Evaluating injuries and providing first aid. Implementing rehabilitation programs for injured athletes and developing injury prevention programs.

Can athletic trainers give medical advice?

As health care professionals, athletic trainers often take patient histories, evaluate, measure, and fit patients for orthotics, educate patients on how to wear and use orthotics, and provide advice and treatment on injury prevention, among other services under the direction of a physician.

Can athletic trainers say they are doctors and say they have those credential?

Regulation of athletic trainers 48 states and the District of Columbia require ATs to hold the Board of Certification credential of “Athletic Trainer Certified” (ATC). Athletic trainers are qualified to apply for a National Provider Identifier (NPI) as mid-level health care professionals.

Can an athletic trainer diagnose?

Unlike personal trainers, athletic trainers focus on the prevention and treatment of sports injuries. They specialize in physical evaluations and risk assessments. They can also diagnose and treat injuries. ATs learn to recognize and assess high-risk to injuries.

Do sports medicine doctors treat back pain?

If you have any of these painful symptoms, it is important to make an appointment with a back specialist for assessment and diagnosis. Our doctors at Sports Medicine North provide treatments for a variety of back, neck, and spine injuries and conditions.

Can athletic trainers administer vaccines?

Training to administer vaccinations has expanded the athletic trainers’ exposure to hospital staff, management and administration. Hanson and other athletic trainers employed at the hospital are increasing awareness of how much athletic trainers are capable of, just like so many other ATs worldwide.

Can athletic trainers prescribe medication?

Athletic trainers are not allowed to prescribe or dispense prescription drugs. Athletic trainers may administer OTC medications in minimal quantities, under practice protocols, subject to the rules of their respective institutions and any applicable state regulations.

What’s the difference between sports medicine and athletic training?

What is the difference between “sports medicine” and “athletic training?” Sports medicine refers generically to a broad field of medical practice related to physical activity. Athletic training is considered a specialization under this broad health care field.