Reducing Lost Workdays After Work-related Injuries-The Utilization of Athletic Trainers in a Health System Transitional Work Programs

Athletic Trainers (ATs) are specialists in the prevention of musculoskeletal injury and they control costs and improve outcomes. Recent studies and reports measurement surveys demonstrate how the services of ATs save money for employers and improve quality of life for those they work with. For every $1 invested in preventative care, employers gain up to a $7 return on investment according to an NATA survey. ATs support a quality-driven health care economy emphasizing injury prevention and early intervention. Results from a nationwide Medical Outcomes Survey demonstrate a significant change in all outcome variables measured with the greatest change in functional outcomes and physical outcomes. It indicates that the care provided by ATs generate a positive change in health related quality of care outcomes. They drive costs down and contribute to cost containment in this changing health care environment. They are committed to quality care from a multifaceted point of delivery and strive to position themselves as the initial provider, directing care through proper referral. ATs are "hands-on" in their delivery of health care, they feel this offers better service to patients while expediting proper delivery of care (aim #1). ATs lower costs (aim #2) through "upstream" care, often pre-injury, which allows for early intervention and improves outcomes by reducing chronic morbidity and aims at early intervention. ATs actively practice continuous improvement (aim #3) through continuous learning stimulated by required continuing education as well as a very active national association of 35,000+ members committed to pursuing quality health care in America.