FAQ - Athletic Training Legal Questions

Answer: K.S.A. 65-6902 defines athletic training as “…the practice of injury prevention, physical evaluation, emergency care and referral or physical reconditioning related to athletic activity.” The required practice protocols also further delineate the scope of practice. K.A.R. 100-69-9 states:

1. As a condition of providing services as an athletic trainer in this state that constitute the practice of the healing arts, each athletic trainer licensed by the board shall file a practice protocol with the board . . .
2. Each practice protocol shall contain the following information:
1. Name, license number, signature, and date of signature of any person licensed to practice the healing arts who will delegate to the athletic trainer any professional responsibilities that constitute the practice of the healing arts.
2. A description of the functions and procedures delegated to the athletic trainer that constitute the practice of the healing arts;
3. A statement from a person licensed to practice the healing arts specifying those acts that have been delegated to the athletic trainer in the absence or unavailability of the licensee; and
4. (4) A statement that the board will be provided with any changes or amendments to the practice protocol within 10 days after any changes or amendments have been made.

Answer: No. School athletes at the high school, middle school, or junior high level must be cleared for return to play by a physician (MD or DO).

A school athlete at the high school, middle school, or junior high level must be removed from practice or play when the athlete suffers, or is suspected of having suffered, a concussion or head injury. A health care provider must then evaluate the athlete and provide written clearance before the athlete may return to play or practice. The School Sports Head Injury Prevention Act, K.S.A. 72-135, defines “health care provider” as a person licensed by the state board of healing arts to practice medicine and surgery. Since an athletic trainer is not licensed to practice medicine and surgery, they are not a health care provider as defined in the Act. Therefore, they are not a health care provider authorized to evaluate or provide clearance to a school athlete who has been removed from practice or play due to a suspected head injury.

Answer: See K.A.R. 100-69-10 in its entirety for all continuing education requirements for athletic trainers in Kansas.

Answer: No.