Made with FlowPaper - Flipbook Maker
CERT UPDATE A PUBLICATION FROM THE BOARD OF CERTIFICATION SUMMER 2025 The Value of BOC Certification: Supporting Athletic Trainers and Advancing the Profession2 BOCATC.ORG SUMMER 2025 BOC continues to support the professional mobility of licensed Athletic Trainers (ATs) by developing a new interstate compact with the Council of State Governments (CSG) via a cooperative agreement with the Department of Defense (DoD). An interstate compact will allow ATs to practice across state lines physically and remotely (e.g., via telehealth), improving continuity of care. ATs have the knowledge and skills to be effective in many health care settings, including virtual care. Digital health expands ATs’ reach and provides patients with increased access to qualified health care professionals. An interstate compact is the most efficient way for ATs to use telehealth in multiple states. Occupational licensure compacts represent the best policy options for states to improve licensure portability. The AT Compact will enhance reciprocity among compact member states to reduce barriers to employment and care delivery. An interstate compact is also a more efficient and effective way for AT regulators to exchange licensure and disciplinary data, which would further improve public protection. Licensure compacts are created by gathering input from various stakeholders (such as regulatory boards, professional organizations and state officials) and are based on a collaborative decision-making process. The development of these compacts follows a structured approach that seeks agreement among stakeholders and builds on the existing policies across different states. The goal is to create a standardized framework that allows licensed professionals to practice across state lines while respecting each state’s regulatory requirements. HISTORY, PROGRESS & NEXT STEPS The AT Compact’s development was launched with a kick-off meeting on June 5, 2024, through the CSG’s National Center for Interstate Compacts. Throughout fall 2024 and early 2025, CSG utilized two work groups comprised of state regulators, state board/agency members and ATs to assist in developing the proposed compact legislation. A technical advisory group was assembled to help identify any uniformity among state and practitioner licensure requirements and to identify any unique characteristics or concerns within the profession that may impact the compact. A document team was assembled to help draft and review the proposed legislation based on recommendations from the technical assistance group. An open comment period was held from mid-March until April 25, 2025, to ensure stakeholders in the athletic training profession reviewed the compact’s model legislation prior to implementation. The initial draft of the legislation and a section-by-section summary were provided for review. ATs, regulators and other stakeholders had the opportunity to complete a survey to express their feedback. Informational review sessions to go over the legislation and provide a forum for questions were held on April 3 and 10, 2025, for ATs and the public to attend. An informational review session was held on April 8, 2025, for state regulators and board members to provide feedback. Please see the number of registrants and responses in the table below. RegistrantsNumber AT/Public Webinar154 Licensing Board Stakeholder Review39 Responses Number Public Comment Survey95 Licensing Board Survey22 Following the open comment period, the BOC, CSG and both work groups reviewed the feedback provided in the surveys and review sessions. The feedback will be used to finalize the compact legislation in preparation for future legislative sessions. Once the final legislation is ready for implementation, individual states can begin introducing the compact legislation. For the latest updates and more information regarding the AT Compact please visit the Council for State Governments website. For additional project background, visit the BOC website. AT INTERSTATE COMPACT MAKES PROGRESS Download AT Compact FAQs SUMMER 2025 BOCATC.ORG 3 INSIDE BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2025 BOC Board Officers 3 Letter from the President 4 BOC CONNECTION Athletic Trainer Certification Renewal - New Deadline: February 2, 2026 5 Cover Article: The Value of BOC Certification: Supporting Athletic Trainers and Advancing the Profession 6 CPC Concept Update - New Professional Development Approach 8 Promoting Athletic Trainer Awareness Toolkits 10 Real Voices, Real Value: The BCS-O ® Credential in Action 11 Orthopedic Specialty - 2025 September Exam Deadline 11 Featured BOC Approved Provider 16 New BOC Approved Providers 16 INDUSTRY NEWS AT Interstate Compact Makes Progress 2 Parenting and the Profession: Strategies to Make it Work 12 In-Depth Look: Athletic Trainer for County Fire and Rescue Services 14 PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE AND STATE REGULATION Legislative News 20 Professional Practice and Discipline 22 BOC CORNER BOC Committee Spotlight 18 BOC News in Brief 19 BOC Holiday Closures 21 NATA NEWS Latest News and Updates from NATA 19 CANDIDATES Athletic Trainer Certification - 2025 Exam Deadlines 21 2025 BOARD OFFICERS President/ Corporate/Educational Director Brian Conway, LAT, ATC Vice President/Athletic Trainer Director Chris Ashton, MS, LAT, ATC Treasurer/Athletic Trainer Director Jeremy Marra, MS, ATC, CSCS, CES Athletic Trainer Director Christina Chapski, EdD, AT, ATC Physician Director Sujan Gogu, DO, FAAFP Public Director Robin Jenkins, MSW, DCSW, CPM, ICE-CCP, CAE Athletic Trainer Director Kelsey Rynkiewicz, PhD, LAT, ATC, NREMT Athletic Trainer Director Bonnie Van Lunen, PhD, ATC, FNATA, FNAP Athletic Trainer Director Lynne-Marie Young, M.Ed, LAT, ATC Chief Executive Officer Anne Minton, MBA, ICE-CCP4 BOCATC.ORG SUMMER 2025 As we progress through 2025, the Board of Certification (BOC) remains committed to advancing the athletic training profession through innovation, collaboration and leadership. This year promises significant developments that will shape our profession’s future, and I’m excited to share what lies ahead. One of our most pivotal initiatives is the Athletic Trainer (AT) Interstate Compact, which represents a transformative step to increasing continuity of patient care, improving licensure mobility and expanding professional opportunities for ATs. A public comment period recently concluded, with ATs, regulators and other stakeholders weighing in on the drafted legislation. The next steps are underway. The coming months will also bring progress related to the highly anticipated launch of the Continuing Professional Certification (CPC) program. As we refine the program based on ongoing research and the 2024 Pathfinder Pilot, we are dedicated to implementing a CPC program that aligns with the highest professional standards and supports ATs’ ongoing growth. We appreciate the valuable input from AT volunteers and stakeholders as we move closer to implementation. Collaboration has always been a cornerstone of our work, and we embrace our strong partnerships with other organizations within the Strategic Alliance. We see significant opportunities to enhance our collective efforts working with the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE), the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) and the NATA Foundation to advance initiatives that benefit the athletic training profession. On the international front, we continue to expand our reach. We recently attended the 25th Annual Japan Athletic Trainers’ Organization (JATO) Symposium and met with leadership from JATO and JSPO (Japan Sport Association). In addition, our team is working with other nations to expand access to the athletic training certification program, ensuring access to high-quality credentialing worldwide. Another highlight is the growth of our Orthopedic Specialty Certification, with 12 more individuals recently earning the BCS-O ® credential, bringing the total to 68 Board Certified Specialists in Orthopedics. This program is gaining momentum, allowing ATs to showcase expertise in their specialized area. Finally, our dedication to maintaining the highest accreditation standards is unwavering. We have once again submitted our application for the Athletic Training Certification program to the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA), underscoring our adherence to the gold standard in certification. This commitment upholds our mission and fortifies the credibility and value of BOC credentials. As we navigate the year ahead, the BOC is focused on maintaining and expanding our tradition of excellence. We look forward to continuing to support ATs in achieving their professional goals. Thank you for your dedication to this incredible profession—we are excited for what’s to come! With deep appreciation, Brian Conway LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT Brian Conway, LAT, ATC Athletic Trainer Certification Renewal The BOC is shifting its renewal deadline effective this period, giving Athletic Trainers (ATs) more time to complete their renewal requirements. The new deadline will be January 31 (or the next business day if January 31 falls on a weekend). The deadline for the current renewal period will be Monday, February 2, 2026. The new deadline provides a smoother, more flexible renewal period. It also helps BOC stakeholders avoid weekend/holiday disruptions. The renewal process under the new deadline mirrors our current process, minimizing confusion for ATs. The deadline shift enables a stronger system of support and troubleshooting. Below is a breakdown of planned current and upcoming renewal deadlines based on this change. Current and Upcoming Renewal PeriodsRenewal Period Timing Mon 1/1/2024 – Mon 2/2/2026 Current Sun 1/1/2026 – Mon 1/31/2028 Upcoming Please note: ATs can accumulate continuing education units (CEUs) during January 2026 to either complete the 2024-2025 renewal period or the upcoming renewal period. Despite the extended deadline for this renewal period, we encourage ATs to “raise the bar” and complete requirements early! Log into your BOC profile to pay your certification maintenance fee or any past-due fees and access your CE reporting form. Expiration dates of 12/31/2025 will be updated to 2/2/2026 over the next several weeks. CATEGORY A REQUIREMENT AND OPTIONS ATs must obtain a minimum of 10 CEUs (if 50 CEUs due) or 5 CEUs (if 25 CEUs due) that qualify for Category A. As a reminder, the previous evidence-based practice designation was removed as a separate category and was integrated into Category A in 2022. Looking for Category A CE? Visit the BOC Program Directory to find BOC Approved Provider programs or visit the BOC website to see what other activities qualify for Category A. CATEGORY B, C AND D OPTIONS Optional fulfillment of requirements is also available within categories B, C and D. The Continuing Education section of the BOC website provides a current breakdown of options by category. In addition to completing the outlined CE, ATs must complete the following ANNUAL requirements: • Payment of certification maintenance fees • Complete an attestation of compliance with “BOC Standards of Professional Practice” • Upload current Emergency Cardiac Care (ECC) card/certificate or confirm current ECC certification Check your BOC profile to complete any of these action items. SUMMER 2025 BOCATC.ORG 5 New Deadline: February 2, 2026Achieving the BOC Certified Athletic Trainer (ATC ® ) health care credential is more than a mere milestone—it’s a transformative gateway to expanded opportunities and career advancement. As the official certifying organization for Athletic Trainers (ATs), the Board of Certification (BOC) plays a pivotal role in supporting ATs, upholding the integrity of the ATC ® credential, strengthening the athletic training profession and safeguarding public health through excellence in care. BOC CERTIFICATION: A MARK OF EXCELLENCE The ATC ® credential represents the highest standard in athletic training competence, distinguishing professionals who have demonstrated exceptional education, clinical expertise and dedication to patient-centered care. This designation is only earned after completing a rigorous accredited professional athletic training program recognized by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE) and successfully passing the comprehensive BOC AT Certification Exam. What sets this certification process apart is its meticulous development. Each exam question is crafted by a committee of BOC Certified ATs and undergoes extensive validation by independent subject matter experts. This approach ensures the exam assesses the precise knowledge and skills essential for safe, effective athletic training practice. BOC CERTIFICATION EMPOWERS AN AT’S CAREER The impact of BOC certification extends beyond professional recognition. It serves as the cornerstone of a thriving athletic training career. By verifying that ATs meet a minimum level of competence, certification enhances patient safety and reinforces public trust in the profession. This foundation of credibility creates career stability and a clear path for continued professional advancement. Certification also connects ATs with vital educational resources that keep them at the forefront of the ever-changing health care landscape. Through structured continuing education requirements and professional development pathways, certified ATs continuously refine their expertise, expand their clinical capabilities and ultimately deliver superior care to their patients. BOC PROVIDES A FOUNDATION FOR COLLABORATION AND GROWTH Today’s health care environment demands seamless interprofessional collaboration, where ATs work alongside physicians, physical therapists and other health care professionals to provide coordinated, comprehensive patient care. The BOC makes sure that ATs are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute meaningfully to diverse health care settings. Beyond individual professional growth, the BOC actively promotes the athletic training profession through strategic advocacy efforts that shape policies, establish professional standards and advance the field’s position in health care. The BOC also tracks critical demographic and professional trends, using this data to inform forward-thinking initiatives that support ATs as their roles continue to expand, ensuring the certification remains relevant and valuable even as health care evolves. 6 BOCATC.ORG SUMMER 2025 The Value of BOC Certification:BOC’S COMMITMENT TO THE ATHLETIC TRAINING COMMUNITY Professional growth thrives within strong networks, which is why the BOC fosters a vibrant community that connects ATs with peers, mentors and industry leaders. Through an extensive volunteer program, certified ATs gain opportunities to contribute to the profession, share specialized knowledge and develop leadership capabilities that help shape the future of athletic training. The ATC ® credential symbolizes a commitment to excellence, lifelong learning and the continuous advancement of health care standards. The BOC stands firmly behind every certified AT, providing the comprehensive support, educational resources and advocacy necessary for individual success and the collective strength of the profession. With BOC certification as their foundation, ATs are empowered to innovate, excel and elevate patient care standards across all practice settings. The future of athletic training is bright, and the BOC is here to champion ATs every step of the way. THE VALUE OF CERTIFICATION VIDEO The BOC developed The Value of Certification video to promote the value of ATs, ATC ® credential and BOC. Watch now as ATs explain in their own words the role the ATC ® credential and BOC play in their practice. SUMMER 2025 BOCATC.ORG 7 Supporting Athletic Trainers and Advancing the ProfessionPATHFINDER PILOT RESULTS DEMONSTRATE POSITIVE IMPACT The 2024 Pathfinder Pilot research project was a groundbreaking initiative designed to test a platform that guides professional development and promotes flexible, individualized and ongoing learning. Pathfinder is a technology platform with a personalized dashboard through which Athletic Trainers (ATs) share their professional goals and interests, quiz themselves with evidence-based challenge questions and customize a professional development learning path. Pathfinder is slated to be part of the Continuing Professional Certification (CPC) program currently in development, and it promotes all components of CPC: Professionalism, Continuing Professional Development and Practice Performance. More than 3,000 ATs participated in the year-long pilot, representing diverse practice settings and experience levels. The results of the Pathfinder Pilot indicate strong support for this innovative approach, with ATs from different perspectives finding value in its structure and reflective learning methodology. In addition, constructive feedback from respondents is being used to enhance and optimize the Pathfinder tool. KEY FINDINGS AND PARTICIPANT FEEDBACK Initial findings from the Pathfinder Pilot highlight strong engagement and positive and constructive feedback from participants. The study captured diverse perspectives and experiences, revealing several key insights into the Pathfinder educational components: Challenge Questions – Valuable and Eye-Opening Many participants appreciated the challenge questions, which pushed them to reflect on their knowledge and identify areas for growth. As one AT noted, “The refreshers helped me focus on certain aspects of practice and reinforce that I don’t know as much as I think I do. I can always improve.” Learning Path Navigation – A Promising Concept with Room for Growth Participants found the Pathfinder tool useful in guiding them toward relevant CEUs. One AT shared, “Pathfinder was a good tool to help navigate which CEUs were needed to enhance my knowledge in the field of athletic training.” Goal Setting and Reflection – A Defined Path The structured reflection process was widely appreciated, with many ATs recognizing its benefits in shaping their professional development. One AT remarked, “This helped shape my future learning by highlighting my deficiencies and guiding me to create SMART goals.” PATHFINDER PILOT: A NEW DIRECTION FOR PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT For more than a decade, the BOC has been working to develop a more impactful approach to continuing education for ATs: CPC. While the existing continuing education unit (CEU) - based system is beneficial, it has room for improvement in meeting the evolving needs of health care professionals. Research across health care disciplines including nursing, occupational therapy, physician assistants and dietetics, supports the notion that longitudinal learning and self-reflection contribute to better lifelong learning outcomes. CPC CONCEPT UPDATE 8 BOCATC.ORG SUMMER 2025The Pathfinder Pilot aimed to explore this evolving approach. The BOC collaborated with volunteers and subject matter experts, including the CPC Advisory Panel, Standards Committee and the BOC Board of Directors, to design a program that enhances knowledge retention and professional growth. The ongoing project sought to address three primary goals: • To meet ATs where they are, ensuring relevance across different practice settings • To provide ATs with choices and flexibility in professional development • To improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the learning process FUTURE IMPACT ON THE ATHLETIC TRAINING PROFESSION The CPC framework, informed by Pathfinder Pilot results, represents a significant step forward in credentialing and professional development. The BOC is now analyzing the Pathfinder Pilot data in depth, working with key stakeholders. The Pathfinder Pilot demonstrated that a structured, outcomes-based approach can enhance learning outcomes while offering ATs more control over their professional development. Looking ahead, the BOC Board of Directors are reviewing and analyzing results to: • Refine the CPC framework based on pilot feedback • Enhance the functionality and usability of this platform • Expand personalized learning opportunities • Continue collaboration with ATs and stakeholders to ensure the program’s success JOIN THE CONVERSATION AT NATA 2025 ATs and stakeholders eager to learn more about CPC’s future are encouraged to attend the BOC session, “CPC Update—Pathfinder Pilot: Innovating Personalized Professional Development in Credentialing” at the 76th NATA Clinical Symposia & AT Expo in Orlando, Florida. SAVE THE DATE Date: June 26, 2025 Time: 12:45 PM – 1:40 PM The Pathfinder Pilot has laid a strong foundation for the future of athletic training and professional development. With continued refinement and engagement, CPC will reshape the way ATs approach lifelong learning, ensuring they remain at the forefront of their field. SUMMER 2025 BOCATC.ORG 9 New Professional Development Approach PATHFINDER PILOT PARTICIPANT FEEDBACK “I enjoyed completing the Pathfinder Pilot. It made approaching my continuing education goals more enjoyable and interactive.” “I like the fact that this is new and something different that is being tried and tested. Overall, I had a good experience with it and would participate again.” “Great experience using Pathfinder. It makes learning fun and enjoyable.” “Although I missed several questions, I enjoyed the challenge questions! They were a great learning tool for me and a nice refresher on principles I should know. I work in a health/fitness setting, so my AT skills are rusty. I would love a refresher course designed for ATs in my situation!” “I liked breaking it into different segments throughout the year. I liked being able to do the challenge questions at my own pace.” “I appreciated the whole pilot program. It brought to the forefront where I am lacking in knowledge and gave me resources to use to help me gain more knowledge in those areas.” “Overall, the program was helpful and fairly easy to navigate. The amount of work and time to complete the work was what I expected. I would participate again if given the opportunity.” “I really enjoyed Pathfinder and the idea behind it. I think it could continue to develop and be very useful in guiding Athletic Trainers in where their gaps in learning are.” Next >