Athletic Trainer Focus with our state licensure passed, there is always more work to be done in terms of implementation of that licensing law with rules and regulations as well as for future legislation. NYSATA is always advocating for athletic trainers in NY. We have a very active governmental affairs committee that works closely with our lobbyists to develop strategies for improving the current ability to practice as well as the outlook for ATs in NY. Currently, we are working on passing a bill that allows ATs from other states to travel into NY and treat their athletes while they are here which has major implications for collegiate, professional, and Olympic sports. We are also working towards legislation that protects ATs who travel into New identify and mitigate injury risk but manage emergencies and treat and rehabilitate injury and illness as they occur. ATs develop long-standing relationships, not only with their patients but create a network of providers to ensure optimal care through their referral network and collaboration with supervising physicians. Athletic trainers should be able York so that they can provide care to their teams. T&C: Looking ahead, what do you envision for the future of athletic training in New York State? Are there any specific goals that NYSATA is working towards to advance the profession and better serve athletes and communities statewide? Stephenson: There are very few healthcare professionals who see their patients daily over the years and cannot only to provide this kind of care to their physically active patients and be recognized for their unique set of skills as healthcare providers. Future efforts to allow for thirdparty reimbursement may be key in creating employment opportunities as well as improving salaries. Having athletic trainers in any practice setting could only enhance the quality of care and improve the performance of the physically active. NYSATA is committed to advancing the profession of athletic training and has been able to do so only through the efforts of our leadership. We look forward to continuing our momentum in Albany this legislative session and encourage our members to join us in these efforts as we are all NYSATA. n USE CODE: ATHLETES 28 | Training & Conditioning | June/July 2024http://www.corxt.com