Baseline Concussion Testing in High School Athletes: A Gap Between Policy and Practice.

Area of Science:

• Sports Medicine
• Neurology
• Public Health Policy

Background:

• Concussions pose a significant risk to high school athletes.
• Effective baseline concussion testing aids diagnosis and personalized post-injury management.
• Current policies and practices for baseline testing in high schools show gaps.

Purpose of the Study:

• Identify the discrepancy between current baseline concussion testing policies and practices in state high schools.
• Gather support for mandatory baseline concussion testing for high school athletes.
• Propose revisions to enhance current baseline concussion testing policies.

Main Methods:

• Mixed-methods approach utilizing a Qualtrics survey.
• Data collected from high school athletic directors across the state.
• Survey assessed current testing practices, barriers, and benefits of baseline concussion testing.

Main Results:

• Thirty-three responses were analyzed.
• Respondents acknowledged the benefits of baseline testing despite potential challenges.
• Current practices, perceived barriers, and benefits were identified.

Conclusions:

• A need for standardized baseline concussion testing procedures for high school athletes was identified.
• Findings support revisions to the current state policy for concussion testing.
• Policy revisions can enhance athlete safety and improve long-term health outcomes.