HF82

The legislative bill introduced by Representative Huot is focused on defining and clarifying the scope of practice for athletic trainers in Minnesota. It amends existing statutes to specify what activities athletic trainers are allowed to perform, under which conditions, and under whose supervision they must operate.

Key highlights of the bill include: 1. Scope of Practice: Athletic trainers can treat emergent, acute, and chronic injuries as well as non-orthopedic conditions, provided these actions are within their training and experience. Their responsibilities include prevention and wellness promotion, risk management, emergency care, assessment and diagnosis, therapeutic interventions, and health care administration.

1. Supervision and Collaboration: Athletic trainers must perform their duties under the direction of, or in collaboration with, a primary physician who is licensed in Minnesota. The bill outlines specific tasks athletic trainers are authorized to perform, like injury prevention, emergency care, and injury rehabilitation.

2. Protocols and Limitations: Athletic trainers are required to work according to protocols established by a supervising physician. The bill also sets limitations, stating that athletic trainers cannot claim to practice in any other healthcare profession like medicine, chiropractic, or physical therapy, unless they are also licensed in that field.

3. Referrals and Treatment Adjustments: If a medical condition is outside an athletic trainer's scope, they must refer the patient to a licensed professional. They're also allowed to suggest treatment modifications to the supervising physician based on the patient's response to treatment.

4. Temporary Practice Exceptions: The amendments clarify that the rules do not apply to athletic trainers who are in Minnesota temporarily for specific athletic events and are certified or licensed in another state or country.

5. Repeals: The bill repeals certain subdivisions that previously defined terms like "athlete" and "athletic injury".

Overall, the proposed bill seeks to enhance the clarity and effectiveness of athletic training practices in Minnesota, ensuring that athletic trainers operate within well-defined legal and professional boundaries while providing care.