California High School Athletic Directors\u27 Perceptions of Medical Coverage

The purpose of this study was to survey the high school athletic directors in California to determine current levels of on-site medical care for student-athletes. Athletic directors indicated satisfaction ratings of utilized on-site medical personnel. Medical personnel employment time, employment status (contracted from an external source, employed as staff, or volunteer), and rates of athletic event coverage by medical personnel were reported. Significant determinants of satisfactory coverage were reported as well as school descriptors (size, population, and socio-economic status) and medical coverage rates for each sport offered. Coaches were also asked to identify key determinants that dictated the current level of medical coverage provided by his or her respective school. All medical professionals received averaged satisfaction ratings of average to above average from athletic directors. Excellent was the most frequent rating given to all personnel by participating athletic directors. Medical coverage for practices and competitions was most commonly provided by certified athletic trainers. Physicians and EMTs/paramedics most frequently provided game coverage as part-time volunteers or contractors. Performance was the highest valued determinant for athletic directors in choosing medical personnel coverage for sporting events, and low-cost/volunteered services were the least influential. Athletic directors reported that need was the most important factor in deciding coverage for sports and events (practices and competitions)