Certified Athletic Trainers as Physician Extenders

 

1. Background:

  • Minimum:
    • Bachelor Degree in Sports Medicine or related field. NATABOC Certified
    • Experience with injury evaluation and rehabilitation
  • Preferred:
    • Masters Degree in Sports Medicine related area or Management. 2-3 years of experience Experience with injury evaluation and implementing comprehensive injury management strategies
    • Computer skills involving power point, excel, and access

 

2. Work Load:

  • Hours: 40 -45 hrs/wk, usually Monday – Friday only. Work Load: Work load remains stable throughout the year with slow periods around the Christmas holidays. Increasing volume during the summer months and the fall.
  • Travel: None

 

3. Job Profile:

  • Day-to-Day:
    • Injury evaluation Injury prevention Pre-participation physicals Injury Management Injury rehabilitation Health education Ssports nutrition Sports training and conditioning Report writing & documentation
    • No emergency care.
    Supervision: Supervising Physician(s)
  • Job Security:
    • Continuance of job depends upon ATC’s job performance and financial performance of the medical team.

 

4. Salary/Benefits:

  • Salary Range: Entry Level: $32,000 Experienced: $42,000 Manager/Owner: $50,000+ Benefits: Paid Time Off Continuing education Medical Insurance Dental Insurance Vision Insurance Life Insurance Disability Insurance Professional Liability Insurance Flexible scheduling Retirement programs
  • Matched Savings Plan

 

5. Supervision:

  • Director - ATC
  • Physician

 

6. Positive aspects of the job:

  • 40 hours per week (usually) Weekends off Set hours No travel Positive work environment Improved facilities Influence and educate patients/athletes See a wide range of ages in the active population Very positive professional relationship with physicians Room for growth in this professional setting Positive interaction with other allied health professionals No outreach programs
  • Minimal concerns about 3rd party reimbursement

 

7. Negative aspects of the job:

  • Politics with other sports medicine facilities Economy may affect financial performance of employer and/or client company No athletic competition Working with older non-athletic patients
  • Convincing certain physicians the value of the ATC

 

8. Tips for getting a job in this setting:

  • Develop a strong rapport with physician(s) Diversify your clinical skills and experiences Remain on the cutting edge of sports medicine Obtain education in areas of other health Develop good skills in evaluation and management of musculoskeletal injuries Improve your ability to work and communicate with many types of people/personalities
  • Find the busiest practice with the longest waiting room time and offer your services