Certified Athletic Trainers are consistently underpaid. Athletic Trainers are healthcare providers that work to prevent, diagnose, and rehabilitate acute and chronic athletic related injuries and illnesses. Our minimum requirements for education include a Bachelor’s degree from a CAATE accredited program (with more than 70% holding a Master’s degree) and Continuing Education Units due every two years. Athletic Trainers are also required to pass the Board of Certification before practicing and many state’s regulate the profession via state licensure. These credentials are similar to that of many other health care providers, including nurses, respiratory therapists, physicians’ assistants, and yes… even physical therapists.
Despite our education and qualifications, we are still earning an average salary of $34,000 to $52,000 annually.
Not only are athletic trainers underpaid, a majority of athletic trainers RARELY work 40 hours a week. When a sport is in season, we often travel to every location with the team. We could be on the road for 4 out of the 7 days a week during mid-season. Athletic Trainers are passionate about what they do, and this causes us to give in and take lower salaries. However, in our previous blog posts, we know we have retention issues… and I think we can all ascertain WHY!
We are going to lose great Athletic Trainers if they are not paid fairly. But part of this, is standing for what is or isn’t appropriate… healthcare isn’t free… don’t be underpaid and overworked… you make it harder for the rest of us!
Emilie Miley LAT, ATC & Michael Neal LAT, ATC
Despite our education and qualifications, we are still earning an average salary of $34,000 to $52,000 annually.
Not only are athletic trainers underpaid, a majority of athletic trainers RARELY work 40 hours a week. When a sport is in season, we often travel to every location with the team. We could be on the road for 4 out of the 7 days a week during mid-season. Athletic Trainers are passionate about what they do, and this causes us to give in and take lower salaries. However, in our previous blog posts, we know we have retention issues… and I think we can all ascertain WHY!
We are going to lose great Athletic Trainers if they are not paid fairly. But part of this, is standing for what is or isn’t appropriate… healthcare isn’t free… don’t be underpaid and overworked… you make it harder for the rest of us!
Emilie Miley LAT, ATC & Michael Neal LAT, ATC
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