Athletic Trainers

General Counsel FAQs

Is a short-term permit available for athletic trainers temporarily in the State of Kansas? For example, an athletic trainer contracted to provide services at a summer camp or at the Special Olympics?

Can an athletic trainer evaluate or provide clearance to a school athlete who has been removed from practice or play due to a head injury?

No. School athletes at the high school, middle school or junior high level must be cleared for return to play by an M.D. or D.O.

A school athlete at the high school, middle school, or junior high level must be immediately removed from a sport competition or practice session 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 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 School Sports Head Injury Prevention 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.

An athletic trainer is not restricted from evaluating or providing care to an individual with a head injury within the scope of their license.

See K.S.A. 72-7119; K.S.A. 65-6902; K.A.R. 100-69-9

This message is from the Office of the General Counsel who represents the Board. The Office of the General Counsel does not render legal advice or services to private individuals or entities. All statements are intended as general guidance to hypothetical questions and do not necessarily represent the position of the Board. No warranties or representations are made regarding the completeness or adequacy of the information provided. Information on the Board’s website is general guidance, not legal advice, and does not establish an attorney-client relationship. For individualized advice on a particular topic, please consult independent legal counsel.