Comparing Responsibilities between Outreach and Staff Secondary School Athletic Trainers

Abstract

Context: Athletic trainers working in the secondary school setting is work can be hired through the institutions themselves or outreach through various clinics. Recently, researchers have found discrepancies in the job descriptions for athletic trainers can affect their ability to perform their necessary duties. Objective: To compare the differences in duties, job descriptions, and satisfaction between athletic trainers employed in the secondary school setting through outreach contracts and those employed by the schools or districts. Design: Cross-sectional study. Setting: Web-based online survey. Patient or Other Participants: A total of 82 individuals answered the survey, 68 of which identified themselves as certified athletic trainers working in the secondary school setting. Results: Many athletic trainers who had similar expectations in their hours or job descriptions to their actual duties had higher job satisfaction than those who did not. There was no difference found between athletic trainers who were outreach and those who were staff athletic trainers. Conclusions: Accuracy of job descriptions and expectations had positive job satisfaction. We believe that if athletic trainers are given appropriate job descriptions and expectations concerning their roles on campus, they will be better equipped to perform as needed.