HB1140
To Define Healthcare Provider Regarding Student Athlete Concussion Education.
AI-Generated Summary
This bill proposes to amend Arkansas Code § 6-18-710(a) which relates to student athlete concussion education. The primary amendment focuses on defining the term "healthcare provider" for the purposes of concussion education. The bill lists specific types of professionals who would be included in this definition. These include physicians, doctors of osteopathic medicine, neuropsychologists, advanced practice registered nurses, certified athletic trainers, physician assistants, and physical therapists. The bill also clarifies the definition of "youth athletic activity," specifying that it pertains to organized athletic activities for participants predominantly under nineteen years of age. This definition includes games, competitions, practices, and preparations for such events. However, it explicitly excludes college or university activities and activities incidental to non-athletic programs. The overarching purpose is to establish a clear and comprehensive understanding of who qualifies as a healthcare provider in the context of ensuring proper concussion education for student athletes.
Potential Impact Analysis
Who Might Benefit?
The primary beneficiaries of this bill would be student athletes participating in organized youth athletic activities, as they would be assured of concussion education provided by a defined set of licensed and certified healthcare professionals. This clarity could lead to more consistent and potentially higher quality concussion management and educational protocols. Additionally, the healthcare professionals explicitly named in the definition, such as certified athletic trainers, physicians, and physical therapists, would benefit from a clear understanding of their role and authorization in this specific educational context. Schools, athletic organizations, and parents involved in youth sports would also benefit from the clarified scope of who is qualified to provide this crucial education.
Who Might Suffer?
This bill does not appear to directly and negatively impact any specific groups or entities. Its focus is on defining terms for an existing educational requirement. However, in a broad sense, any entity or individual who might have previously offered concussion education without being licensed or certified as a "healthcare provider" under this proposed definition could be indirectly impacted by being excluded from providing such education. This could include individuals or organizations that are not licensed medical professionals but have been involved in concussion awareness programs. The bill's specificity in defining "healthcare provider" might inadvertently limit the pool of educators, though the intent is to ensure qualified individuals are involved.