BOC BCS-O

While the scope of practice keeps increasing for athletic trainers, how much more can we fit into a 2 year masters program?

Are specialty certifications needed as the athletic training industry keeps injecting itself into the public health sphere?

The Board of Certification for the Athletic Trainer now offers the Board Certified Specialist in Orthopedics (BCS-O) credential that will help athletic trainers in the hospital setting. It is being accepted in place of other required credentials for certain positions and roles, such as assisting in the operating room or scrub privileges.

Pathway 1:

1 YR CAATE accredited residencies in orthopedics + 1 YR Full-Time Employment (before or after residency) = 2 YRS PRACTICE EXPERIENCE

Pathway 2:

Completion of at least 260 hours of professional development in orthopedics and four years of practice experience after BOC certification has been earned

For the professional advancement of athletic training this certification has provided evidence for helping improve AT working conditions, compensation, and respect in the healthcare community.