Bridging the Gap: Essential Public Health Services in Athletic Training Practice
Abstract:
Many ATs may not be aware that the population-level activities they participate in to reduce injury risk and protect and promote the health of their communities align with the ten essential public health services (EPHS). Through presentation and group discussion we will examine the relationship between EPHS and the practice domains of athletic training, framing the EPHS in terms relevant to ATs. We will share original survey data from the NATA Athletic Training and Public Health Taskforce demonstrating AT’s engagement in the EPHS. Through individual and small group activities, attendees will actively examine how their own practices contribute to EPHS.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the 10 Essential Public Health Services (EPHS) and their relevance to athletic training practice domains.
- Interpret findings from the NATA Athletic Training and Public Health Task Force survey on athletic trainers’ engagement in the EPHS.
- Identify services within individual practice settings that align with EPHS with a focus on risk reduction strategies.
Level:
Advanced
Domain(s):
Domain 1: Risk Reduction Wellness and Health Literacy
Domain 3: Critical Incident Management
Domain 5: Health Care Administration and Professional Responsibility
Orthopedic Domain(s):
N/A
CEUs:
1.0 Category A
Keywords:
population health; public health surveillance; public health practice
In order to earn your CEUs, you must watch the session video in its entirety and complete the assessment.
Course Expiration:
All sessions of the NATA 76th Symposia On-Demand must be completed by October 31, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. CDT.
For full details, refer to the expiration policy on our FAQ page.
Rebecca Hirschhorn, PhD, ATC, NRAEMT
Dr. Rebecca Hirschhorn earned her Bachelor’s in Athletic Training from James Madison University and went on to earn a Master’s in Physical Education and PhD in Exercise Science from the University of South Carolina. After graduating, she completed a postdoctoral fellowship in Auburn’s Warrior Research Center. Dr. Hirschhorn has a strong clinical background having worked in a variety of patient populations ranging from youth athletes and performing artists to tactical athletes. She has also worked in emergency medical services for the past eight years. Her research focuses on the intersection of athletic training, emergency medical services and public health. Dr. Hirschhorn is currently an Assistant Professor of Professional Practice in the School of Kinesiology at Louisiana State University where she teaches courses in emergency medicine, primary care, and advanced clinical skills in the athletic training program.
