Integration of Athletic Training Services on a Smokejumper Base: A Descriptive Study

Objective: To examine utilization of an athletic trainer (AT) at a Smokejumper base throughout fire season and document Smokejumper satisfaction with services provided. Methods: The AT documented patient encounters with Smokejumpers who were invited to complete a five-part injury prevention movement and mobility assessment (MMS) during fire season with follow up consultations to incorporate injury prevention strategies. Smokejumpers were asked to complete an AT satisfaction survey (ATSS) at the end of season. Results: One hundred ninety-two documented patient encounters revealed four primary reasons for AT consultation: exercise prescription (31%, n ¼ 59/192); MMS (30%, n ¼ 58/192); injury consultation (27%, n ¼ 51/192); and patient education (12%, n ¼ 24/192). Likert scores on the ATSS ranged from 4.67 to 4.92 out of a possible 5. Conclusions: Alth-Although continued research into Smokejumper injuries is critical, it is evident that Smokejumpers are interested in having direct access to AT services.