Member Resource Library

Below is a summary of the legality of cannabis in select countries that may be frequented by athletic trainers. This is a sampling of countries and one should always look up the laws of each country, state, and/or region for the most current information to include, but not limited to, prescription, possession, consumption, cultivation, and travel regulations. This is especially important since rules and regulations surrounding cannabis change frequently. This page will be updated as well as information becomes available.

2700 BC: Chinese Emperor, Shen-Nung, lists cannabis as being useful for more than 100 ailments, including rheumatism, constipation, and gynecological disorders.

This is an excel spreadsheet of various associations, organizations and councils and their respective position statements and journal articles on the use of cannabis in health care and sports medicine.

Athletic trainers’ knowledge of current federal, state, county, and local rules and regulations is continually changing and requires program educators and clinicians to stay current on the latest information to provide the best possible healthcare to physically active individuals.

A four page document that outlines the roles and responsibilities of the United States' Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) as it relates to the use of cannabis.

The United States Drug Enforcement Administration (USDEA) regulates all drugs and classifies them according to the Controlled Substance Act (Title 21 of the US Code) which places a drug in one of five categories based upon a substance’s medical use, potential for abuse, and safety or dependence liability.

The use of cannabis derivatives for medicinal purposes and therapeutic potential have been heavily researched over the past several years due to changes in societal and cultural norms. It is the duty of the athletic trainer to be able to educate their patient/athlete and understand the medicinal benefits, the long and short-term side effects, and the associated risks of the use of cannabinoids. It should be noted that utilizing cannabinoids for medicinal and therapeutic benefits should be discussed with a licensed physician prior to initiating treatment.

In general, athletic trainers are advised against traveling in possession of cannabis-related products until regulations become clearer and afford certain protections. The following information is provided should an athletic trainer consider traveling with cannabis and have approval from one’s directing physician.

The means by which cannabis derivatives (e.g. cannabinoids) can exert their effects on the human body involves the endocannabinoid system, a complex cell-signaling network that involves neural, immune, enzyme-driven, and other physiologic processes.

Revenue models contain information that will help ATs maintain and improve their positions by quantifying their worth to the organization. Revenue models include: Secondary School Value Model, College/University Value Model, Physician Practice Value Model and the Public Safety Value Model.

Tune in to another insightful episode of "CompensATion ConversATion," a special series on “The NATA-Cast” podcast. In this episode, Murphy Grant, LAT, ATC, NASM-PES, chair of the NATA AT Compensation Task Force and host of this special series, interviews Kenny Boyd, MS, LAT, ATC, Emily Mulkey, MS, LAT, ATC, CPT, and Julie Cavallario, PhD, ATC, about the nuances of employment separation, providing valuable insights from across the hiring spectrum. Whether you're a seasoned professional navigating the departure process or a fresh graduate stepping into the job market, this episode has something for everyone. Guests share their perspectives on what employers look for when hiring ATs and provide a comprehensive understanding of the professional etiquette and strategies for leaving a job gracefully, ensuring that your departure sets the stage for future success.

JAT article that discusses burnout, a state of physical or emotional exhaustion, a concern within athletic training, as between 17% and 40% of athletic trainers (ATs) report high levels of burnout. Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are linked with higher levels of burnout in other health professions.

NATA News infographic handout on concussions, updated in 2023

Sports Medicine Legal Digest was created to keep athletic trainers informed on current legal issues that could affect their daily practice. Each issue features article, case summaries and columns related to risk and liability, professional responsibility and ethics.
 

This episode of "CompensATion ConversATion" showcases three full-time athletic trainers who are also dedicated moms. Murphy Grant, LAT, ATC, NASM-PES, chair of the task force and host of this series, interviews Ann Wallace, MSEd, ATC, NASM-CES, Jamie DeRollo, MBA, DAT, ATC, and Kristan Todd, MS, LAT, ATC, to discuss the unique challenges and triumphs they face while navigating the demands of their thriving careers and the joys of motherhood. This episode offers a wealth of invaluable tips and insights. Whether you're an athletic trainer, a working mom or someone passionate about nurturing a supportive work environment, there is something in this conversation for you.