Controlling Workers' Comp Costs

Survey Find Cost-Effective Solution to Workers' Comp Costs

The Highlights

A 2009 survey by the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) indicates over 80% of companies that employ an Athletic Trainer (AT) realized a return on investment (ROI) of at least $3 for every $1 invested. Other highlights from the survey found:

• Nearly half of the companies indicated an ROI of $5 or more for every $1 invested
• 85% indicated the NUMBER of work-related injuries decreased by at least 25%
• Almost 90% indicated the COST of work-related injuries decreased by at least 25%
• 75% of companies reported that BOTH restricted workday and days away from work decreased by at least 25%
• Over half of the companies found their Emergency Room COSTS decreased by at least 50%

More Survey Info…

The survey was distributed primarily to Safety and/or Human Resources Professionals that supervised the Athletic Trainer at the company. There were 31 surveys included in these Results. Through their highly specialized education and training, ATs provide numerous injury prevention and injury management programs. For example, the survey indicates:

• Over 90% of the companies have the AT provide health and wellness, injury prevention and educational programs
• More than 2/3 of the companies use the AT for ergonomic analysis and recommendations, stretching programs, First Aid and CPR, and as a Safety Representative
• At least half of the companies have the AT provide onsite physical rehabilitation, return to work, fitness, and emergency diagnosis and treatment plans

What is an Athletic Trainer?

Athletic trainers are health care professionals who collaborate with physicians to optimize activity and participation of patients and clients. Athletic training encompasses the prevention, diagnosis, and intervention of emergency, acute, and chronic medical conditions involving impairment, functional limitations, and disabilities.

In the industrial or manufacturing settings, ATs use the same prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation guidelines that are used with professional athletes. It is this proactive, innovative approach of treating “Industrial Athletes” that has led to the significant impact ATs can provide in production and manufacturing work environment.