Former Collegiate Athletes' Healthcare Needs During and After Sport Transition: An Exploratory Study

Area of Science:

• Sports Medicine
• Transition Healthcare
• Student-Athlete Well-being

Background:

• Student-athletes encounter unique challenges transitioning from collegiate sports.
• Loss of athletic department healthcare services coincides with emerging adulthood.
• Navigating this transition requires tailored support for health and well-being.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify health and well-being needs of former student-athletes post-transition.
• To inform the development of targeted healthcare transition strategies.
• To improve support systems for collegiate athletes exiting sports.

Main Methods:

• Mixed-methods design utilizing surveys and focus groups.
• 35 former student-athletes completed health and transition surveys.
• 12 former student-athletes participated in focus groups on healthcare transition barriers.

Main Results:

• Most participants perceived their health similarly or improved post-college, but many lacked specific healthcare plans.
• Difficulties in accessing needed care were reported, influenced by a "Performance over People" culture.
• Relational resources (family, friends, mentors, medical professionals) proved critical for successful transition.

Conclusions:

• The culture of elite sport impacts former athletes' health understanding and engagement.
• Significant gaps exist in healthcare support for former student-athletes, especially for holistic, sport-aware care.
• Structured planning, specialized provider networks, and mentorship can enhance former student-athlete well-being.