DESCRIPTION OF POSITION:

The Athletic Trainer functions as an integral member of the orthopedic care team by providing clinical support, patient education, care coordination, and musculoskeletal rehabilitation services under the direction of the supervising orthopedic physician(s) and/or advanced practice provider(s). The Athletic Trainer enhances clinic efficiency, improves patient access, and supports high-quality patient care by assisting with evaluations, treatment planning, orthopedic procedures, and patient follow-up.

This position focuses exclusively on in-clinic patient care and operational support within the orthopedic practice.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

Clinical Patient Care

• Prepare patients for examination by obtaining medical histories, documenting chief complaints, and recording relevant clinical information.
• Assist physicians and advanced practice providers during orthopedic evaluations and procedures.
• Provide patient education regarding orthopedic diagnoses, treatment plans, recovery expectations, and injury prevention.
• Instruct patients on prescribed home exercise programs and rehabilitation protocols.
• Perform brace fitting and educate patients on the proper use of durable medical equipment (DME).
• Apply, remove, and educate patients regarding casts, splints, braces, and immobilization devices as permitted by state law and organizational policy.
• Assist with post-operative care and patient education.
• Support return-to-activity and return-to-sport progression as directed by the provider.
• Reinforce provider instructions to ensure patient understanding and compliance.

Care Coordination

• Coordinate diagnostic imaging, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and specialty referrals.
• Assist with scheduling follow-up appointments and continuity of care.
• Conduct follow-up phone calls regarding treatment progress, recovery, and patient concerns.
• Assist with pre-operative and post-operative patient education.
• Support workers' compensation documentation and communication as appropriate.
• Assist with insurance prior authorizations and clinical documentation when requested.
• Track patient outcomes and support quality improvement initiatives.

Clinic Operations

• Assist with patient flow to maximize clinic efficiency.
• Prepare examination rooms and ensure required supplies and equipment are available.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation within the electronic medical record (EMR).
• Communicate effectively with physicians, APPs, nursing staff, therapists, and administrative personnel.
• Assist with inventory management of orthopedic supplies, braces, and clinical equipment.
• Maintain compliance with infection prevention, safety, and regulatory standards.
• Participate in departmental meetings and quality improvement activities.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Athletic Training from an accredited program.
• Current Board of Certification (BOC) certification.
• Current state licensure or eligibility for licensure as an Athletic Trainer.
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
• Knowledge of orthopedic injuries, rehabilitation principles, and musculoskeletal conditions.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary clinical environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in an orthopedic or sports medicine practice.
• Experience with electronic medical records (Epic preferred).
• Knowledge of orthopedic casting, splinting, and durable medical equipment.

Core Competencies

• Patient-centered care
• Clinical assessment and documentation
• Orthopedic rehabilitation principles
• Communication and patient education
• Team collaboration
• Organization and time management
• Professionalism and accountability
• Attention to detail
• Adaptability in a fast-paced clinical environment

Physical Demands/Work Environment

• Stand and walk for extended periods throughout the clinic day.
• Assist patients with transfers and positioning.
• Lift and carry up to 50 pounds occasionally.
• Demonstrate therapeutic exercises and rehabilitation techniques.
• Perform repetitive hand movements associated with clinical documentation and patient care.
• Bend, stoop, kneel, and reach frequently.
• Fast-paced outpatient orthopedic clinic.
• Frequent interaction with patients of all ages.
• Exposure to standard clinical environments and orthopedic procedures.
• Requires adherence to all organizational safety, infection control, and HIPAA standards.

“Experience Memorial” is more than a slogan, it’s the care we provide our patients and it’s the commitment to our community and our team members. As a nationally certified Great Place to Work, at Lake Charles Memorial Health System you will have the opportunity to be a part of an organizational culture that supports not only exceptional patient care but also the well-being and professional growth of our employees. Join us and be a part of a team where your contributions are valued, your growth is nurtured, and your success is celebrated.

Working at Lake Charles Memorial Health System | Great Place To Work?