Athletic trainer availability in interscholastic athletics in michigan

Area of Science:

• Sports Medicine
• Athletic Training
• Public Health

Background:

• Limited data exists on the availability and qualifications of athletic trainers in high school settings.
• Previous studies in Michigan and other states indicated a need to assess current trends in athletic healthcare.
• The National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA) certification serves as a benchmark for professional development in athletic training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the level of medical care, specifically athletic trainer services, available to high school athletes in Michigan.
• To assess changes in the number and educational background (NATA certification) of athletic trainers since previous studies.
• To compare findings with national data and earlier Michigan-based surveys.

Main Methods:

• A survey was distributed to athletic directors of 711 Michigan high schools between January and March 1989.
• Response rate was 57%, with data collected on the presence and certification status of athletic trainers.
• Results were compared to historical Michigan data and national athletic training surveys.

Main Results:

• 41% of responding high schools reported having athletic trainer services for at least one sport.
• The availability of athletic trainers correlated positively with school size; larger schools had higher percentages.
• Seventy percent of the reported athletic trainers held NATA certification, indicating a high level of qualification.

Conclusions:

• There has been an increase in the availability of athletic trainers in high schools compared to previous years.
• The proportion of certified athletic trainers (NATA) has also risen, reflecting improved educational standards.
• These findings highlight a positive trend in sports medicine accessibility for student-athletes at the high school level.