Will there be assurances that specialization in orthopedics will enhance the athletic training profession and drive it towards becoming a mid-level health care provider, and not become a financial burden like other certifications?
Specialty certification is not required. Employers with orthopedic positions within their organizations were surveyed and indicated that post-certification education was important to them. In fact, additional specialized skills in the orthopedic clinical setting appear to hold considerable value for employers and supervisors. The additional skills gained, combined with employers’ desire to improve patient outcomes and their practice, will push mid-level health care providers with an orthopedic specialty into the forefront of our evolving health care system.