What are the qualifications of a Certified Athletic Trainer?
An athletic trainer must complete a bachelor’s degree at a college or university that has an athletic training program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE). Once they have completed their degree, the person must be tested by the commission to receive certification. Why does an athlete need a note from a physician to return to activity? Certified athletic trainers work under the direction of a physician. If a trainer has a concern about an injury, the trainer may restrict the athlete from competition and/or refer the athlete to a doctor for further evaluation. The note helps prevent any miscommunication between the doctor and trainer. Why can’t an athlete receive over-the-counter medication from an athletic trainer? Athletic trainers do not prescribe medication of any kind. Trainers consider all high school students to be minors and “giving out” over-the-counter medicine is viewed as prescribing. If an athlete needs an over-the-counter med
