Ohio Adm.Code 4755:3 | Ohio Administrative Code 4755:3 — Ohio Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Athletic Trainers Board | Athletic Trainers

Chapter 4755:3-1 Licensure: Application and Reinstatement

Ohio Adm.Code 4755:3-1-01 Applications for initial license.

(A) All applications for initial licensure as an athletic trainer shall be submitted to the athletic trainers section in the manner specified by the section. All applications, statements, and other documents submitted are retained by the section.

(B) Applications are:

(1) Submitted electronically via eLicense Ohio or its successor electronic licensing system;

(2) Electronically signed via eLicense Ohio or its successor electronic licensing system;

(3) Accompanied by the fee prescribed Chapter 4755. of the Administrative Code; and

(4) Accompanied by such evidence, statements, or other documents as specified on the application, including viewing a required presentation about the board's safe haven program.

(C) For the purposes of filing an electronic application via eLicense Ohio or its successor electronic licensing system, the applicant will create log-in credentials. The use of these credentials is solely the responsibility of the person who created it. The credentials constitute the legally recognized signature for the purposes of this rule and may not be transferred, distributed, or shared with any other person.

(D) Any application received in accordance with this rule that remains incomplete one year after the initial application filing is considered to be abandoned and no further processing will be undertaken with respect to that application.

(1) If the application process extends for a period longer than one year, the board may require updated information as it deems necessary.

(2) No application for licensure may be withdrawn without approval of the board.

Last updated October 2, 2023 at 8:47 AM

History

Effective: October 1, 2023
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 4755:3-1-02 Examination requirements.

(A) An applicant satisfies the examination requirements for an Ohio athletic training license by completing both of the following:

(1) Verification from the board of certification, inc. (BOC) or its successor that the applicant passed their certification exam; and

(2) Achievement of a score of at least ninety per cent on the Ohio athletic trainers jurisprudence examination.

(B) The BOC examination may be waived for any person who was certified as an athletic trainer by the national athletic trainers association prior to June 28, 1990.

Last updated October 11, 2024 at 4:17 PM

History

Effective: October 11, 2024
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 4755:3-1-03 Education.

(A) The educational requirements described in divisions (C)(3) and (C)(4) of section 4755.62 of the Revised Code shall be:

(1) Completion of a professional (entry-level) education program accredited by the commission on accreditation of athletic training education or its successor; or

(2) A program of education, training and experience with which the national athletic trainers' association board of certification, inc. (BOC), or its successor has a formal arrangement.

(B) The athletic trainers section shall accept the education credentials of an applicant pursuant to Chapter 4796. of the Revised Code if all of the following conditions are met:

(1) The applicant passed the examination specified in paragraph (A)(1) of rule 4755-43-02 or 4755:3-2-04 of the Administrative Code.

(2) The applicant for licensure either:

(a) Is engaged in the active practice of athletic training as an athletic trainer with a license or government certification in another state; or

(b) Is engaged in the active practice of athletic training in a state not requiring licensure or government certification as an athletic trainer certified by the BOC.

(3) The applicant's licensure and/or certification are active and without restriction.

Last updated December 17, 2023 at 3:48 PM

History

Effective: December 14, 2023
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 4755:3-2-04

In accordance with division (A) of section 4755.623 of the Revised Code, an athletic trainer practices upon the referral from the following:

(A) A physician;

(B) A dentist licensed under Chapter 4715. of the Revised Code;

(D) A chiropractor licensed under Chapter 4734. of the Revised Code;

(E) An athletic trainer licensed under Chapter 4755. of the Revised Code, only if athletic training has already been recommended and referred by a health care provider listed in this rule who is not an athletic trainer;

(F) A physician assistant licensed under Chapter 4730. of the Revised Code; or

(G) A certified nurse practitioner licensed under Chapter 4723. of the Revised Code.

Last updated October 11, 2024 at 9:29 AM

History

Effective: October 11, 2024
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 4755:3-1-04 Reinstatement of licensure.

(A) Pursuant to Chapter 4755. of the Administrative Code, the athletic training license of a person who fails to comply with the renewal requirements shall automatically expire on the thirtieth day of September of the appropriate year.

(B) All applicants for reinstatement shall submit a completed application on the forms specified by the section. All applications shall:

(1) Be submitted electronically via eLicense Ohio or its successor electronic licensing system;

(2) Be electronically signed via eLicense Ohio or its successor electronic licensing system;

(3) Contain the fee prescribed by Chapter 4755. of the Administrative Code;

(4) Contain proof that the applicant met the appropriate continuing education requirement:

(a) For reinstatement applications submitted on or after November first of the year in which the applicant's license expired, the applicant shall complete twenty-five contact hours of continuing education in accordance with rule 4755:3-3-01 of the Administrative Code within the two year period immediately preceding the application for reinstatement. Contact hours used to meet the requirements of this paragraph may be used to renew the reinstated license; or

(b) Notwithstanding paragraph (B)(4)(a) of this rule, for reinstatement applications submitted before November first of the year in which the applicant's license expired, the applicant shall complete the number of contact hours of continuing education that were required to renew the expired license. All contact hours used to reinstate the license shall be earned in accordance with rule 4755:3-3-01 of the Administrative Code. Contact hours used to meet the requirements of this paragraph shall not be used to renew the reinstated license.

(5) Contain proof that the applicant holds current certification by the board of certification, inc. if the reinstatement application is submitted on or after December first of the year in which the applicant's license expired.

(6) Be accompanied by such evidence, statements, or documents as specified on the application, including viewing a required presentation about the board's safe haven program.

(C) In addition to the information required in paragraph (B) of this rule, the athletic trainers section may also require:

(1) Appearance before the section for a reinstatement interview.

(2) Taking or retaking the laws and rules examination.

(3) Taking or retaking the examination specified in Chapter 4755. of the Administrative Code.

(D) The athletic trainers section may reinstate a license and may waive payment of late fees for reinstatement when the section determines that a person demonstrates good cause why the person was unable to submit the renewal fee by the prescribed renewal date. In no instance shall the normal renewal fee be waived.

(E) For the purposes of filing an electronic application via the eLicense Ohio or its successor licensing system, the applicant will create log-in credentials. The use of these credentials is solely the responsibility of the person who creted it. The credentials constitute the legally recognized signature for the purposes of this rule and may not be transferred, distributed, or shared with any other person.

(F) Any application received in accordance with this rule that remains incomplete one year after the initial application filing is considered to be abandoned and no further processing shall be undertaken with respect to that application.

(1) If the application process extends for a period longer than one year, the board may require updated information as it deems necessary.

(2) No application for licensure may be withdrawn without approval of the board.

Last updated October 2, 2023 at 8:48 AM

History

Effective: October 1, 2023
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 4755:3-3-01

(A) Pursuant to section 4755.63 of the Revised Code, to renew an athletic trainers license, license holders shall complete:

(1) Not less than twenty-five hours of continuing education that meet the requirements of this rule; and

(2) At least one contact hour of ethics education per renewal cycle. The one hour ethics requirement shall be fulfilled by completing an acceptable activity outlined in paragraph (C) of this rule that contains at least one hour addressing professional ethics. In addition, any presentation by the athletic trainers section that addresses professional ethics meets the ethics requirement.

(3) At least one contact hour of mental health and/or substance use education per renewal cycle. The one hour mental health and/or substance use requirement shall be fulfilled by completing an acceptable activity outlined in paragraph (C) of this rule that contains at least one hour addressing mental health and/or substance use. In addition, any presentation by the board's safe haven program that addresses mental health and/or substance use meets this requirement.

(4) The same contact hour cannot be used to fulfill both the ethics and the mental health and/or substance use requirements.

(5) License holders are not required to obtain any continuing education units for the first renewal.

(B) The athletic trainers section shall determine if a continuing education activity meets the requirements of this rule. Continuing education is defined as participation in an organized continuing education experience under responsible sponsorship, capable direction, and qualified instruction. One contact hour equals sixty minutes.

(1) Applications for prior approval of workshop or conference content by the athletic trainers section may be obtained by the workshop or conference sponsor from the board office. For prior approval, completed applications shall be received by the section no later than ninety days prior to the date of the workshop or conference.

(2) If no other form of verification is used, license holders shall obtain from the board office verification of participation forms, which are to be signed by each presenter at the conclusion of each presentation. If a presentation is made by a panel, only one signature is required. Original continuing education certificates or other original documents indicating credits awarded may also be used as verification of participation.

(3) Continuing education hours shall exclude refreshment breaks, receptions and other social gatherings, and meals.

(1) Participation in professional workshops, seminars, and/or conferences.

(a) Credit is obtained for in person participation in presentations that have either been approved by the athletic trainers section, sponsored by the national athletic trainers association, the board of certification, inc., the great lakes athletic trainers association, the Ohio athletic trainers association, offered by a board of certification, inc. approved provider, or which otherwise meets all of the following criteria:

(i) Contributes directly to professional competency;

(ii) Relates directly to the clinical practice, management, or education of athletic training; and

(iii) Conducted by people who demonstrate expertise in the subject matter of the program.

(b) Proof of content shall be demonstrated by the original workshop or conference brochure, agenda, and/or other materials given to participants during the presentation and/or, if applicable, information documented on prior approval applications made with the board.

(2) Presentations. To be eligible to receive continuing education credit for making a presentation, including a poster presentation, the presentation shall be:

(a) To health or education professionals and/or students; and

(b) Directly related to the clinical practice, management, or education of athletic training professionals.

Five hours will be awarded per presentation, with a maximum of ten hours per renewal cycle. Proof of having conducted the presentation is the workshop, conference, or seminar contract, the brochure, agenda or other printed materials describing the content and audience.

Continuing education credit will not be awarded for subsequent presentations of the same material.

(3) Publication of original work. Ten hours will be awarded per original publication in a state or national scientific journal or publication of a related professional organization. A maximum of twenty hours may be earned in this category per renewal cycle.

(4) Postgraduate courses. Any course completed after receiving a bachelors degree may be submitted for consideration by the athletic trainers section provided the course is directly related to the management, practice, or education of athletic training. Proof of completion is an unofficial transcript and a copy of the course description. An official transcript may be requested at the discretion of the athletic trainers section. Five contact hours will be awarded for each semester hour or equivalent accepted. There is no limit of contact hours in this category.

(5) Self-study. Formal self-study packages, such as printed text, multi-media, or internet based activities, related to the practice of athletic training are acceptable. Proof of completion is the certificate of completion and/or a copy of the post-test results. A maximum of twenty hours may be earned in this category per renewal cycle.

(6) Post-professional athletic training education program. Graduation from a post-professional athletic training education program accredited by the commission on accreditation of athletic training education may be submitted for the continuing education requirement and will qualify for twenty-five hours of continuing education in the year the license holder graduates. Proof of completion is an unofficial transcript. An official transcript may be requested at the discretion of the athletic trainers section.

(7) Laws and rules examination. One contact hour may be earned for completing and passing the Ohio athletic training laws and rules examination. This contact hour may be utilized only once per renewal cycle for continuing education credit. Proof of completion will be supplied by the section. This contact hour may be used to fulfill the ethics requirement established in paragraph (A)(2) of this rule.

(8) Volunteer services to indigent and uninsured persons pursuant to section 4745.04 of the Revised Code. To qualify under this rule, volunteer services shall:

(a) Be provided at a free clinic or other non-profit organization that offers health care services based on eligibility screenings identifying the client as an "indigent and uninsured person" as that term is defined in division (A)(7) of section 2305.234 of the Revised Code.

(b) Be documented in writing in the form of a certificate or a written statement on letterhead from an administrative official at the organization where services were rendered, specifying at a minimum the license holder's name, license number, date(s) of qualifying volunteer services, number of hours of services, and describing the services that were rendered.

(d) Not be credited for license holders who are also using the hours toward educational and academic pursuits.

(e) Be athletic training services provided in compliance with the Revised and Administrative Codes.

(f) Be credited as one hour of continuing education for each sixty minutes spent providing services as a volunteer, not to exceed four hours of the total biennial continuing education requirement.

(g) Not count toward the one contact hour of ethics or mental health and/or substance use per renewal cycle as required by paragraph (A)(2) or (A)(3) of this rule.

(D) An athletic training license shall not be renewed unless the license holder indicates on the renewal application that the person completed the required number of continuing education hours specified in paragraph (A) of this rule.

A license holder who falsifies a renewal application may be disciplined by the athletic trainers section for violating division (A)(3) of section 4755.64 of the Revised Code.

(E) Records and documentation of continuing education activities, such as verification of participation forms, conference brochures, certificates, college or university transcripts or grade reports, articles, books, and/or apprenticeship evaluations shall be maintained by the license holder.

(F) The athletic trainers section shall conduct an audit of the continuing education records of not less than five per cent of the license holders each renewal year.

(1) License holders chosen for the audit shall submit documentation to support the continuing education activities within the timeframe specified by the athletic training section. After review of the records and documentation, if requested, the materials shall be returned to the license holder.

(2) Failure to provide proof of the required number of continuing education hours in the appropriate categories, for the specified time period will result in the commencement of disciplinary action.

(3) Failure to respond to or acknowledge receipt of an audit notice will result in the commencement of disciplinary action.

Last updated August 7, 2023 at 8:53 AM

History

Effective: August 4, 2023
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 4755:3-1-05 Biennial renewal of license.

(A) Renewal of an athletic trainer license happens in accordance with section 4755.63 of the Revised Code.

(1) The following shall be completed to satisfy the requirements of license renewal:

(a) The entire licensure renewal application, including any required forms;

(b) Compliance with the continuing education requirement specified in rule 4755:3-3-01 of the Administrative Code; and

(2) The renewal notice is sent to the e-mail address on file with the board.

(B) All persons licensed as an athletic trainer shall renew their license by the thirtieth day of September in each even-numbered year. When a license to practice as an athletic trainer is issued by the board on or after June first of an even-numbered year, that license is valid through the thirtieth day of September of the next even-numbered year.

(C) Persons who fail to submit the renewal fee, completed application, any other required information, or comply with the continuing education requirement specified in rule 4755:3-3-01 of the Administrative Code by the thirtieth day of September of the even-numbered year shall have their license automatically expire.

(1) A license holder whose license expires for failure to renew shall submit a reinstatement application in accordance with rule 4755:3-1-04 of the Administrative Code. The athletic trainers section shall approve the reinstatement application before the person may legally practice as an athletic trainer in Ohio.

(2) A license holder who continues to practice as an athletic trainer with an expired license is subject to disciplinary action pursuant to section 4755.64 of the Revised Code or is guilty of a misdemeanor pursuant to section 4755.99 of the Revised Code.

(D) For the purposes of filing an electronic renewal application via eLicense Ohio or its successor licensing system, the applicant shall create log-in credentials. The use of these credentials is solely the responsibility of the license holder who created it. The credentials constitute the legally recognized signature for the purposes of this rule and may not be transferred, distributed, or shared with any other person.

Last updated October 11, 2024 at 4:17 PM

History

Effective: October 11, 2024
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Chapter 4755:3-2 Code of Ethical Conduct

Ohio Adm.Code 4755:3-2-01 Code of ethical conduct.

The following basic principles make up the code of ethical conduct for the practice of athletic training in the state of Ohio. When a person becomes a licensed athletic trainer they assume certain ethical obligations and responsibilities. An athletic trainer whose conduct is not in accordance with the principles set forth in the following code of ethical conduct shall be considered in violation of the Revised Code.

(A) Athletic trainers shall respect the rights, welfare, and dignity of all persons.

(1) Athletic trainers shall show no discrimination in their efforts while performing duties.

(2) Athletic trainers shall provide care on the basis of the needs of the person.

(3) Athletic trainers shall be committed to providing competent care consistent with both the requirements and limitations of their profession.

(4) Athletic trainers shall obtain informed consent from the patient.

(a) An athletic trainer, unless otherwise allowed by law, shall not provide patient care without disclosing to the patient or the patient's representative, the benefits, substantial risks, if any, or alternatives to the recommended examination or intervention.

(b) Information relating to the athletic trainer-patient relationship is confidential and may not be communicated to a third party not involved in that patient's care without the prior written consent of the patient or the patient's representative, or unless otherwise allowed by law. Information must be disclosed when required by law for the protection of the patient or the public.

(5) Athletic trainers shall respect the rights, knowledge, and skills of colleagues and other health care professionals.

(6) Athletic trainers shall not, by their conduct, publicly discredit or lower the dignity of the members of the profession.

(7) Athletic trainers shall not engage in any of the following conduct with patients, students and/or colleagues.

(a) Harassment;

(b) Abuse in verbal, physical, written, or electronic form;

(d) Disparagement or discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, national origin (ancestry), military status (past, present, or future), disability, age, status as a parent during pregnancy and immediately after the birth of a child, status as a parent of a young child, status as a foster parent, genetic informaiton, or sexual orientation.

(8) Athletic trainers shall not engage in harassment that creates a hostile work environment.

(B) Athletic trainers shall comply with the laws and regulations governing the practice of athletic training.

(1) Athletic trainers shall comply with the laws and rules of the state of Ohio and any applicable local and federal laws governing the practice of athletic training.

(2) Athletic trainers shall report any conduct that is unethical, illegal, or incompetent to the athletic trainers section of the Ohio occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic trainers board. Reportable conduct includes any violation of this rule. Where the alleged violation involves impairment issues and no other provisions of Chapter 4755. of the Revised Code or rules adopted under it, the reporting license holder may make a referral to the safe haven program in lieu of making report to the athletic trainers section.

(3) Athletic trainers shall not practice athletic training while the ability to practice is impaired. "Impaired practitioner" means, as defined in the "Professional Practice and Discipline Guidelines and Procedures" effective January 1, 2020 from the board of certification, inc., "a person with a physical or mental condition, including deterioration through aging, loss of motor skill, or excessive use or abuse of drugs including alcohol, that prevents one from practicing athletic training with reasonable skill and safety to patients. Types of impairments may include, but are not limited to: substance abuse, personality disorders/disruptive behavior, physical impairments, and psychological impairments." If a license holder's or applicant's ability to practice is in question, and the license holder or applicant is not a participant in the board's safe haven program, the license holder must submit to a physical or mental examination or drug/alcohol screens as requested by the athletic trainers section and at the athletic trainer's cost to determine the applicant's or license holder's qualifications to practice athletic training.

(4) Athletic trainers shall not access, browse, or use personal health information or other personally identifiable information without authorization, consent, or as otherwise mandated or permitted by relevant law.

(C) Athletic trainers shall accept responsibility for the exercise of sound judgment in protecting the public and the profession of athletic training.

(1) Athletic trainers shall not misrepresent in any manner, either directly or indirectly, their skills, training, professional credentials, title, identity, or services.

(2) Athletic trainers shall provide only those services for which they are qualified via education and/or experience.

(3) Athletic trainers shall not guarantee the results of any training, consultation, or therapeutic procedure. A reasonable statement of prognosis is not improper, but successful results are dependent upon many uncontrollable factors, hence, any warranty is deceptive and unethical.

(4) Athletic trainers shall not cheat or assist others in conspiring to cheat on the national certification examination or the state jurisprudence examination.

(D) Athletic trainers shall maintain and promote high standards in the provision of services.

(1) Athletic trainers shall strive to achieve the highest level of competence.

(2) Athletic trainers shall recognize the need for continuing education and participate in various types of educational activities that enhance their skills and knowledge in accordance with continuing education guidelines for the profession.

(3) Athletic trainers shall keep accurate records for all areas of injury management. These shall include, but are not limited to, collaboration agreements, standard operating procedures, written referrals, personal injury reports/initial evaluation, and daily care rendered/rehabilitation logs. These records shall be in paper or electronic format and secured according to legal statutes regarding confidentiality.

"Standard operating procedure" means a written referral relationship that consists of a plan of care communicated between the health care professional listed in division (A) of section 4755.623 of the Revised Code or rule 4755-42-02 or 4755:3-2-04 of the Administrative Code and the athletic trainer, and shall include procedures for assessment and treatment.

(4) Athletic trainers shall not document or bill for services not actually provided.

(5) Athletic trainers shall only seek compensation that is reasonable for the athletic training services delivered. Athletic trainers, regardless of the practice setting, shall safeguard the public from unethical and unlawful business practices.

(6) Athletic trainers shall not intentionally or knowingly offer to pay or agree to accept any compensation, directly or indirectly, overtly or covertly, in cash or in kind, to or from any person or entity for receiving or soliciting patients or patronage, regardless of the source of the compensation.

(7) Athletic trainers shall not influence a patient or the patient's family to utilize, purchase, or rent any product or equipment based on the athletic trainer's direct or indirect financial interests, including potential incentives. Recommendations of product or equipment must be based solely on the therapeutic value of that product or equipment to the patient. An athletic trainer who owns or has a direct financial interest in an equipment or supply company must disclose the financial interest to the patient if the athletic trainer sells or rents, or intends to sell or rent, to the patient.

(8) Athletic trainers shall ensure the patient's rights to participate fully in their care, including the patient's right to select the athletic training provider, regardless of the practice setting.

(9) Athletic trainers shall safeguard the public from underutilization or overutilization of athletic training services by providing only those services appropriate and prudent in the provision of care.

(10) Athletic trainers shall provide accurate and relevant information to patients about the patients' care within the scope of confidentiality statutes.

(11) Athletic trainers shall provide accurate and relevant information to the public about athletic training services.

(12) Athletic trainers shall report to the athletic trainers section any unprofessional, incompetent, unethical, or illegal behavior of an athletic trainer of which the person has knowledge. An obligation to report is inherent in the profession.

(13) Athletic trainers shall adhere to the minimal standards of acceptable prevailing practice. Failure to adhere to minimal standards of practice, whether or not actual injury to a patient occurred, includes, but is not limited to, practice or use of tasks, knowledge, and skills that are not valid with the current professional practice of athletic training. These tasks, knowledge, and skills should reflect current practice trends and supported in the literature as evidence-based practices.

(14) An athletic trainer shall not disclose to unauthorized persons any confidential information received from any person served professionally without the documented consent of that person or the legal guardian or unless as otherwise required by law.

(E) Athletic trainers shall not exploit persons served professionally.

(1) Athletic trainers shall not accept persons for treatment if benefit to the person cannot reasonably be expected.

(2) Athletic trainers shall not continue treatment without reasonable expectation of further benefit to the patient.

(3) Athletic trainers shall not place financial gain above the welfare of the patient and shall not participate in any arrangement that exploits the patient.

(4) Athletic trainers shall not have a romantic or dating relationship or engage in any sexual activity, including sexual conduct or sexual contact, with any patient, or engage in any conduct that may reasonably be interpreted by the patient to be sexual, whether consensual or nonconsensual, while a practitioner/ patient relationship exists. In the case of minors, the practitioner/ patient relationship extends to the minor's parent or guardian.

(a) An athletic trainer shall not intentionally expose or view a completely or partially disrobed patient in the course of treatment if the exposure or viewing is not related to the patient diagnosis or treatment under current practice standards.

(b) An athletic trainer shall not engage in a conversation with a patient that is sexually explicit or tacitly imply sexually implicit intentions during the athletic training plan of care. This includes verbal behavior that is sexually demeaning to the patient or may be reasonably interpreted by the patient as sexually demeaning.

(5) An athletic trainer shall not engage explicitly or tacitly in harassment of patients, the parent/guardian of a minor patient, students, or colleagues. Harassment includes, but is not limited to, racial, political, ethnic, religious, gender and gender identification, sexual orientation, age, disability, marital status, or veteran status. Harassment includes making unwelcome sexual advances, requesting sexual favors, engaging in other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature, intimidating words or actions, or words or actions that demean, threaten or offend a victim where such actions result in:

(a) Withholding athletic training services to a patient;

(b) Creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment for the patient; or

(6) Chaperone use.

(a) Athletic trainers shall make a reasonable attempt to either:

(i) Offer a patient the opportunity to have a third person or chaperone in the examining room or treatment setting during an intimate examination or treatment; or

(ii) Follow their employer's chaperone policy.

(b) A chaperone policy shall address the following:

(i) Who can qualify as a chaperone;

(ii) The type of examination, treatment situation, or care provided when a chaperone shall be offered;

(iii) Chaperones shall be offered without regard to the age or gender of the patient; and

(iv) In emergency situations, the chaperone policy may not apply.

(c) Documentation shall reflect whether a chaperone was offered or declined, and, if accepted, who the name of the adult who acted as a chaperone.

(d) An athletic trainer has a right to insist on the presence of a chaperone before providing care to protect the integrity of the patient and care-giver relationship.

(F) Cooperation.

Athletic trainers shall cooperate with an investigation by the athletic trainers section. Failure to cooperate is conduct detrimental to the best interest of the public and grounds for disciplinary action. Cooperation includes responding fully and promptly to any questions raised by the athletic trainers section and providing copies of the medical records and other documents requested by the athletic trainers section. Failure to comply with paragraphs (F)(1) to (F)(7) of this rule may be grounds for disciplinary action pursuant to section 4755.64 of the Revised Code and in accordance with Chapter 119. of the Revised Code.

(1) A license holder shall respond fully and truthfully to a request for information from the athletic trainers section.

(2) A license holder shall comply with a subpoena issued by the athletic trainers section.

(3) A license holder shall provide information or documents within the time frame specified by the athletic trainers section.

(4) A license holder shall appear and provide information at an interview requested by the athletic trainers section.

(5) A license holder shall not deceive, or attempt to deceive, the athletic trainers section regarding any matter, including by altering or destroying any record or document.

(6) A license holder shall not interfere with an investigation or disciplinary proceeding by willful misrepresentation of facts before the agency or the athletic trainers section, or by use of threats or harassment against any patient or witness to prevent the patient or witness from providing evidence in a disciplinary proceeding or any other legal action.

(7) A license holder shall not refuse to provide testimony in an administrative hearing.

(G) A license holder shall self report to the athletic trainers section, within thirty days, any of the items outlined in paragraphs (A) to (G) of this rule. Failure to comply with this rule may be grounds for disciplinary action pursuant to section 4755.64 of the Revised Code and in accordance with Chapter 119. of the Revised Code.

(1) Impairment due to abuse of or dependency on alcohol, drugs, or other medical condition or illness that affects the applicant's or license holder's ability to practice with reasonable skill and safety. This reporting requirement shall not be applicable where the applicant or license holder is a participant in the board's safe haven program and complies with the same.

(2) Conviction of a felony.

(3) Conviction of a misdemeanor when the act that constituted the misdemeanor occurred during the practice of athletic training.

(4) The termination, revocation, or suspension of membership by a state or national athletic training professional association.

(5) The termination, revocation, or suspension of certification status by a national credentialing organization, including, but not limited to, the board of certification, inc.

(6) A positive drug and/or alcohol screening.

(7) A finding of malpractice by a court of competent jurisdiction.

Last updated November 17, 2025 at 7:59 AM

History

Effective: November 17, 2025
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 4755:3-2-04

In accordance with division (A) of section 4755.623 of the Revised Code, an athletic trainer practices upon the referral from the following:

(A) A physician;

(B) A dentist licensed under Chapter 4715. of the Revised Code;

(D) A chiropractor licensed under Chapter 4734. of the Revised Code;

(F) A physician assistant licensed under Chapter 4730. of the Revised Code; or

(G) A certified nurse practitioner licensed under Chapter 4723. of the Revised Code.

Last updated October 11, 2024 at 9:29 AM

History

Effective: October 11, 2024
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 4755:3-2-02 Scope of practice.

(A) With a collaboration agreement pursuant to section 4755.621 of the Revised Code.

(1) Under a collaboration agreement, the athletic trainer is authorized to engage in the following:

(a) The prevention, examination, and athletic training diagnosis of injuries or emergent conditions resulting from physical activities that require skill and utilize strength, power, endurance, speed, flexibility, range of motion, or agility;

(b) The complete management, treatment, disposition, and reconditioning of injuries or emergent conditions resulting from physical activities;

(c) The provision of emergent care, therapeutic interventions, and rehabilitation for injuries or emergent conditions resulting from physical activities;

(d) The promotion of and education about wellness;

(e) The administration of drugs, including topical drugs, that have been prescribed by a licensed health professional authorized to prescribe drugs and are administered under the direction of the prescriber , except that an athletic trainer shall not administer intra-articular or intratendinous injections;

(f) The performance of athletic training research;

(g) The organization and administration of educational programs and athletic training facilities; and

(h) The education of and consulting with the public as it pertains to athletic training.

(2) A collaboration agreement:

(a) Is entered into between an athletic trainer and one or more physicians;

(b) Is in writing and signed by the athletic trainer and each physician with whom the athletic trainer collaborates;

(d) Addresses the following:

(i) The duties and responsibilities to be fulfilled by the athletic trainer when engaging in the activities under paragraph (A)(1) of this rule;

(ii) Any limitations on the athletic trainer's performance of the activities; and

(iii) A plan of care for patients treated by the athletic trainer.

(B) Without a collaboration agreement pursuant to section 4755.622 of the Revised Code.

(1) Athletic trainers who do not have a collaboration agreement with a physician must maintain standard operating procedures or have a referral pursuant to section 4755.623 of the Revised Code. Athletic trainers working under collaboration agreement or referral are authorized to engage in only the following activities:

(a) The practice of prevention, recognition, and assessment of an athletic injury;

(b) The complete management, treatment, disposition, and reconditioning of acute athletic injuries;

(c) The administration of topical drugs that have been prescribed by a health professional authorized to prescribe drugs;

(d) The organization and administration of educational programs and athletic facilities; and

(e) The education of and consulting with the public as it pertains to athletic training.

(2) A standard operating procedure means a written referral relationship that consists of a plan of care communicated between the health care professional listed in division (A) of section 4755.623 of the Revised Code or rule 4755:3-2-01 of the Administrative Code and the athletic trainer and shall include procedures for assessment and treatment.

Last updated August 27, 2026 at 2:36 PM

History

Effective: October 11, 2024
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 4755:3-2-03 Unauthorized practice.

In accordance with division (A) of section 4755.62 of the Revised Code, no person shall do either of the following:

(A) Use the words athletic trainer, athletic training, licensed athletic trainer, licensed trainer, or the letters A.T., L.A.T., or any other letters, words, abbreviations, or insignia indicating or implying that the person is an athletic trainer unless they hold a valid license under sections 4755.60 to 4755.65 of the Revised Code.

(B) Imply by actions or otherwise engage in the practice of athletic training unless the individual holds a valid license under sections 4755.60 to 4755.65 of the Revised Code.

Last updated November 9, 2023 at 8:52 AM

History

Effective: November 9, 2023
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 4755:3-2-05 Required credential to indicate licensure.

All Ohio-licensed athletic trainers shall use the initials "A.T." or "AT" following their name to indicate that the person is currently licensed to practice athletic training in Ohio.

Last updated November 9, 2023 at 8:52 AM

History

Effective: November 9, 2023
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 4755:3-2-06 Delegation of tasks to unlicensed persons.

(A) "Unlicensed personnel" means any person who is on the job trained and does not hold a valid license to practice athletic training in Ohio under sections 4755.60 to 4755.65 of the Revised Code, and who supports the delivery of athletic training services by personally assisting the licensed athletic trainer while the athletic trainer is concurrently providing services to the same person.

(B) The license holder performs the following, none of which may be assigned to unlicensed personnel.

(1) Interpreting available information concerning the referral.

(2) Performing the initial evaluation.

(3) Initiating or adjusting treatment procedures or activities.

(4) Planning patient care.

(C) Unlicensed personnel may only be assigned routine duties and tasks that assist in the delivery of athletic training and operations, such as:

(1) Maintenance and care of equipment and supplies.

(2) Preparation, maintenance, and cleaning of treatment areas.

(3) Assistance for the athletic trainer while the athletic trainer is concurrently providing services to the same person.

(D) Supervision of unlicensed personnel.

(1) Direct supervision from the license holder is required whenever unlicensed personnel are performing activities related to the delivery of athletic training services identified in paragraph (C) of this rule.

(2) "Direct supervision" means at the same location and available to immediately respond to the needs of the unlicensed personnel or patient.

(3) The supervising athletic trainer is accountable and responsible at all times for the actions of all unlicensed personnel supervised by the license holder.

Last updated October 11, 2024 at 9:29 AM

History

Effective: October 11, 2024
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Ohio Adm.Code 4755:3-2-07 Athletic training students.

(A) A student is an unlicensed person. However, for purposes of the exemption from licensure contained in division (A)(3) of section 4755.65 of the Revised Code, a student need not be licensed if all of the following requirements are met:

(1) The student:

(a) Is enrolled in:

(i) An education program accredited by the commission on accreditation of athletic training education (CAATE); or

(ii) An international professional (entry-level) education program located in a country that has entered into a formal arrangement with the national athletic trainers' association board of certification, inc. and enrolled as a student at a program identified in paragraph (A)(1)(a)(i) of this rule.

(b) Has not met the requirements to sit for the certification examination of the board of certification, Inc.;

(2) The activities and services performed by the student constitute a part of an approved course of study in accordance with paragraphs (B) and (C) of this rule;

(3) Students are designated by titles which clearly indicate their status as a student.

(B) An athletic training student shall be supervised by an athletic trainer under this chapter or physician licensed under Chapter 4731. of the Revised Code. The supervisor is responsible for planning, directing, and evaluating the student's athletic training experience. Supervision occurs along a developmental continuum that allows a student to move from interdependence to independence based on the student's knowledge and skills as well as the context of care. Supervisors must be onsite and have the ability to intervene on behalf of the athletic training student and the patient. The supervisor must demonstrate knowledge and competency in any procedure or services delegated to an athletic training student.

(C) Any documentation written by a student must be countersigned by the supervising athletic trainer. Documentation shall include the student's handwritten signature or unique electronic identifier. The student shall identify as "athletic training student" or the abbreviation "ATS."

(D) High school students and students in higher education not enrolled in a program accredited by CAATE are not "students" for the purpose of the exemption from licensure provided by section 4755.65 of the Revised Code and this rule. These high school and higher education students should be referred to as "student aides." Student aides are unlicensed personnel as defined in rule 4755:3-2-06 of the Administrative Code.

Last updated October 11, 2024 at 9:29 AM

History

Effective: October 11, 2024
Promulgated Under: 119.03

Chapter 4755:3-3 Continuing Education

Ohio Adm.Code 4755:3-3-01 Continuing education.