Expanding the AT Skillset: Addressing Needs of Patients with Disability

Currently, one in four adult Americans is living with a disability (CDC, 2024). It is vital for Athletic Trainers (ATs) to address the needs of all patients, but this can be increasingly challenging when caring for patients with disabilities.

There is a call for competent, compassionate ATs to increase their skill set, enabling them to provide optimal athletic health care to people with disabilities. ATs of all practice settings should feel prepared to care for patients with disabilities.

ATs can infuse Culturally Congruent Care throughout the practice of athletic training. This is accomplished through patient-centered care aligned with the cultural values, beliefs, worldview and practices of the patient and their family (BOC SOPP, 2024). An AT can incorporate cultural interview methods during clinical evaluation, incorporating the patient’s worldviews on self-identification and cultural perspectives on disability, access, support and lived experiences.

ATs can utilize some of the following questions during a patient encounter (NCHPAD, 2025):

1. Medical History and Disability Context

• “Can you tell me more about your condition or disability, and how it affects your daily life?”
• “Are there any specific challenges or limitations you experience when engaging in physical activity?”
• “How do you currently manage your condition or disability, both medically and functionally?”

2. Physical Activity Preferences and Abilities

• “What types of physical activity or sports do you enjoy, and what modifications, if any, have you found helpful?”
• “Are there specific movements or activities that cause discomfort or pain?”
• “How do you feel about trying new exercises or sports? Are there any concerns or barriers you’d like to address?”

3. Functional Goals and Motivation

• “What are your goals for physical activity or rehabilitation? Are there any specific functions or activities you’d like to improve?”
• “What would make your experience with exercise or rehabilitation easier or more enjoyable?”

4. Physical Assessment and Safety

• “Are there any movements or activities that you’ve been advised to avoid due to your condition?”
• “Do you experience any pain or discomfort during certain movements or activities?”

5. Mental and Emotional Health

• “How does your disability or condition impact your mental and emotional well-being, particularly in relation to physical activity?”
• “Do you have any previous experience with sports or rehabilitation that were particularly helpful or difficult?”

6. Collaborating with Other Health Care Providers

• “Are there other health care providers (e.g., physical therapists, occupational therapists, etc.) that you work with to manage your condition?”
• “How can we coordinate with your other providers to ensure a comprehensive and cohesive approach to your care?”

7. Education and Support

• “Do you need more information on how to participate in physical activity safely with your specific condition?”
• “Are there any community resources, support groups, or programs you know of or would like help finding to support your physical activity goals?”

8. Accessibility and Environment

• “Are there environmental or accessibility factors (e.g., facilities, transportation, etc.) that impact your ability to participate in physical activity?”
• “What accommodations in terms of facility design, equipment, or support would help you participate more fully?”
• “Can you explain how I might assist you with your equipment (e.g., tighten a prosthetic or inflating tires)?

9. Feedback and Follow-up

• “Is there anything else you’d like me to know about your experience with sports, exercise, or rehabilitation?”

Resources

https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2024/s0716-Adult-disability.html

https://bocatc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/SOPP-2024.pdf

https://www.nchpad.org/resource-categories/for-healthcare-providers/