Where to look for a physician is one of the top questions we get asked.
So we’re curious…
As an Athletic Trainer, do you feel confident in your ability to render service under the direction of, or in collaboration with, a physician?
Maybe you feel overwhelmed by the thought and don’t even know where to start?
Either way, it’s important to note that this requires the athletic trainer to acknowledge the relevance of this statute to their professional practice, understand how to properly implement the behaviors necessary to find a physician, and establish a relationship, while simultaneously recognizing the needs of their organization and evaluate a proper fit for all parties involved.
Most athletic trainers are not educated on the importance of this topic and therefore tend to overlook it when they consider work opportunities, business ventures, or moving to new areas.
Though there has been little enforcement in the past, CAATE has incorporated the need for establishing this relationship as a Standard beyond the 2020 school year, so it is necessary to explore the dynamic between the athletic trainer and team physician while also understanding how to establish a relationship of this nature.
To simplify things and support you in the process of getting started, we’re breaking down 4 promising places to identify a physician whether you’re well established or brand new to the area.
Personal Relationships
First, think about what relationships you already have in place. Team physicians from your alma mater? Other schools in your district/area? Connections through colleagues? Do a brain dump and get clear on the resources you currently have at your fingertips.
Local Community
Think through resources that may be available in your area. Outreach services? Community clinics? Sports med service providers? Local resources are a great place to start your search!
Networking
Lean on your connection with others who might have connections. Attend conferences, ask around in your area, check social media groups, or reach out to your alumni network to tap into these resources.
Internet
The equivalent of cold calling and one of the last ways we want to try to find a supervising physician is by searching the internet, however, this is still a viable option. We recommend you look into local family physicians, sports med specialty groups, or the Find A Doc tool to name a few.
Understanding the role the team physician plays within the team dynamic and the organization you work for is important in giving context to how approaching a physician for the establishment of this relationship may be interpreted.
We hope this information simplifies things and empowers you to start taking action on this critical piece of your patient care. To dive more in-depth and cover all your bases, we recommend checking out our physician relationship course HERE.
