Leveraging Community Resources to Support Patients who are Medically Underserved: A Crucial Role for Athletic Trainers
By Emma Nye, DAT, LAT, ATC (BOC IDEAS Committee Member)
As Athletic Trainers (ATs), we are uniquely positioned to make a significant impact on the health and well-being of our patients, particularly those who are medically underserved. Our role extends beyond the immediate care we provide on the field or in the clinic; it includes being advocates and navigators, helping our patients access the broader resources they need to promote positive health outcomes. One of the most effective ways to do this is by leveraging community resources, which can bridge the gap between the care we provide and the ongoing support our patients and their families require.
Medically underserved patients often face barriers to health care that go beyond financial constraints. They might lack access to adequate nutrition, safe spaces for exercise, mental health support or even reliable transportation to medical appointments. These challenges can significantly impact their ability to recover from injuries, manage chronic conditions or maintain overall health and wellness. As ATs, recognizing these challenges is the first step in addressing them.
Leveraging community resources may provide additional support that spans beyond the care they receive from ATs. These resources include local non-profits, community health centers, food banks, mental health services, transportation programs and educational training. Each of these resources plays a critical role in addressing the social determinants of health that can affect our patients’ outcomes.
For example, a patient recovering from an injury may benefit from a local food bank that provides nutritious meals, ensuring they have the proper diet to support healing. A community health center might offer free or low-cost imaging or rehabilitation services, while a mental health organization can provide counseling or support strategies to help a patient cope with the stress and anxiety that often accompany injury or illness.
To effectively leverage these resources, ATs can establish strong partnerships within the community. This involves networking with local organizations, understanding the services they provide and creating referral pathways that reduce barriers and are easy for patients to navigate. By building these relationships, ATs can ensure that their patients have access to a comprehensive support system that addresses their unique needs. For example, partnering with a transportation service can ensure that patients who don’t have access to reliable transportation can still attend their appointments and stay on track with their treatment plans.
Another critical aspect of leveraging community resources is advocacy. ATs can advocate for their patients by connecting them with resources and educating them about the importance of utilizing these services. Many patients may not be aware of the resources available to them and their families or may feel hesitant to seek help. By providing information and encouragement, ATs can empower their patients to take advantage of the support available to them.
The impact of leveraging community resources is an understated role of ATs. Patients who have access to a broad support network are more likely to adhere to their treatment plans, experience better health outcomes and have a higher quality of life. For ATs, the ability to connect patients with these resources not only enhances the care we provide but also strengthens our role as advocates for the health and well-being of all patients, regardless of their circumstances.
