Bill > HB0658

This bill expands the scope of practice for athletic trainers in Tennessee, allowing them to treat conditions that hinder participation in physical activities, not just injuries, and clarifies their role as healthcare providers. It also introduces new healthcare procedures athletic trainers can perform under physician supervision, including administering certain injections like epinephrine for anaphylaxis, naloxone for overdose, glucagon for diabetic emergencies, and flu vaccines, as well as providing intravenous fluids and dextrose for diabetic emergencies, and closing superficial lacerations with dermal adhesive. The bill also updates requirements for athletic trainer licensure, including certification by the Board of Certification (BOC) and passing a jurisprudence exam, and clarifies eligibility for out-of-state applicants. Importantly, it explicitly states that this expanded scope does not authorize athletic trainers to practice medicine or other licensed healthcare professions.