§34-40-2. Definitions.

As used in this chapter, the following words and phrases shall have the following meanings, respectively, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

(1) APPRENTICE ATHLETIC TRAINER. A person who assists in the duties usually performed by an athletic trainer and who works under the direct supervision of a licensed athletic trainer.

(2) ATHLETE. A person who participates in an athletic activity being conducted by an educational institution, professional athletic organization, or a board sanctioned amateur athletic organization.

(3) ATHLETIC INJURY. An injury received by an athlete as a result of the preparation or participation of the athlete in an athletic activity.

(4) ATHLETIC TRAINER. A person licensed by the Alabama Board of Athletic Trainers as an athletic trainer and who practices athletic training on an athlete under the direction or referral, or both, of a licensed physician after meeting the requirements of this chapter and rules and regulations promulgated pursuant to this chapter.

(5) ATHLETIC TRAINING PRACTICE. Practice by an athletic trainer of any of the following:

a. Under physician direction or referral, or both, the prevention of athletic injuries.

b. The organization and administration of athletic training programs.

c. Athletic counseling and guidance and the education of athletes regarding athletics and athletic training.

d. Under physician direction and referral, the rehabilitation and reconditioning of an athlete.

e. Under physician supervision, the evaluation, the recognition, and management of athletic injuries.

(6) BOARD. The Alabama Board of Athletic Trainers.

(7) PHYSICAL THERAPIST. A physical therapist licensed by the Alabama State Board of Physical Therapy.

(8) PHYSICIAN. A physician licensed by the Medical Licensure Commission of Alabama.

(9) PHYSICIAN SUPERVISION. A licensed athletic trainer acting under the supervision of a physician if:

a. The activities are undertaken pursuant to a verbal or written order of the physician who has evaluated the injured athlete; and

b. The activity is undertaken in accordance with a written protocol signed by the physician which describes the athletic injury encountered and directs appropriate medical interventions consistent with the qualification, training, and experience of the licensed athletic trainer. The State Board of Medical Examiners shall establish minimum medical criteria for any protocol used by athletic trainers and shall specify those conditions and circumstances which require referral to the physician for further evaluation.

(Acts 1993, No. 93-617, p. 1013, §2.)