Sports Medicine Policies & Procedures
Policies and procedures are a critical component of a risk management plan. They are documents that aid in carrying out clear expectations (policies) and instructions (procedures) on various sports medicine topics. By implementing written policies & procedures, organizations are able to communicate desired outcomes to employees, clarify roles and responsibilities and set a foundation for the delivery of safe and effective healthcare.
Policies
Plans
- Guiding principles that press the culture, goals and philosophy
- Widespread application
- Non-negotiable, change infrequently
- Expressed in broad terms
- Are statements of what and/or why
- Answer major operational issues
Procedures
Methods
- Step-by-step descriptions of the tasks required to support and carry out organizational policies
- Narrower focus
- Subject to change and continuous improvement
- More detailed description of activities
- Are statements of how, when, or who & sometimes what
- Detail a process
It is imperative that sports medicine programs develop and implement comprehensive policies & procedures for all potential injuries in sport. This includes policies & procedures for:
- Sudden Cardiac Arrest
- Exertional Heat Stroke
- Traumatic Head/Brain Injuries
- Exertional Collapse Associated with Sickle Cell Trait
- Lightning
- Asthma
- Anaphylaxis
- Spinal Cord Injury
- Musculoskeletal injury
- Pre-participation examinations