DALLAS — Sen. Lisa Baker noted that the current law about athletic trainers does not clearly define invasive procedures, leaving room for strict interpretation.
Baker, R-Lehman Township, stated that two bills she sponsored to modernize the roles of athletic trainers in Pennsylvania were passed by the Senate.
Baker explained that Senate Bill 559 and Senate Bill 560 would allow athletic trainers to offer a wider range of health care services to more people.
“This can prevent life-saving techniques like using an EpiPen or administering a rescue inhaler or insulin,” Baker said. “The bills make it clear that, under a written protocol with a licensed physician, procedures such as blister and nail care, administration of Naloxone, and certain medication injections can take place.”
Baker also mentioned that the bills would broaden the definition of a physically active person to include individuals involved in sports, athletic competitions, performing arts, recreational activities, or military exercises.
“In Pennsylvania, athletic trainers are healthcare professionals who are board-certified and licensed,” Baker said. “They provide services under the supervision of a licensed physician. However, their scope of practice is currently limited to exclusively helping physically active individuals. The current definition is outdated and excessively restrictive. These bills aim to update the definitions to accurately represent the current education, training, and certification of athletic trainers, while prioritizing patient safety. Importantly, the services would still be administered under a physician’s guidance.”
Gregory Janik, clinical professor and athletic trainer with the King’s College Athletic Training program, expressed appreciation for Sen. Baker’s recognition of qualified medical professionals practicing to their fullest capabilities.
“These bills are critical as they enhance access to healthcare services in the commonwealth by clearly defining the populations and procedures that athletic trainers are trained to handle during their medical studies,” Janik said. “Pennsylvania currently has 23 accredited athletic training programs — the most in the nation. These updates will allow graduates to remain and work to their full education and capacity right here in Pennsylvania, rather than seeking employment in other states.”
The Pennsylvania Athletic Trainers’ Society and several other healthcare groups and providers support the bills, which now move to the House of Representatives for consideration.
