Learning objectives
- Define the sports medicine team model and each member's scope (team physician, athletic therapist/AT, EMS/paramedic, physiotherapist, chiropractor, dentist, spotter/independent neurotrauma consultant).
- Articulate chain of command and "medical control" on game day.
- Apply duty of care, standard of care, consent (including emergency/implied consent and minors), and documentation standards.
- Distinguish single-team coverage from contracted event/mass-gathering coverage.
Topic tree
- The provider's role on the sideline vs. in clinic
- Team-based care models; who has medical authority during competition
- Scope of practice by credential and jurisdiction (CATA/provincial regulation, NATA/state practice acts)
- Legal foundations: duty, breach, causation, damages; Good Samaritan limits; the contracted-provider relationship
- Consent & confidentiality on the field; minors and parental consent; privacy (PHIPA/PIPEDA/HIPAA)
- Pre-participation considerations and medical eligibility (overview)
- Conflicts of interest: athlete welfare vs. competitive/organizational pressure; "fitness to play" decisions and pressure to return
- Independent medical roles (e.g., independent concussion spotters)
- Teacher: Admin User