Open AccessAn Examination of Concussion Legislation in the United States
Author(s) -
Kelly L Potteiger,
Adam Potteiger,
William A. Pitney,
Paul M. Wright
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
the internet journal of allied health sciences and practice
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 1540-580X
DOI - 10.46743/1540-580x/2018.1712
Subject(s) - concussion , legislation , scope (computer science) , athletes , state (computer science) , political science , psychology , law , injury prevention , business , medicine , poison control , environmental health , physical therapy , computer science , algorithm , programming language
There is legislation in the United States designed to protect children and adolescents from the risks associated with concussion. The scope and reach of these laws vary greatly. Purpose: It is important that health care professionals are aware of the limitations of each law. Since 2009, every state in the nation and the District of Columbia passed legislation designed to protect student-athletes who suffer from concussions resulting from participation in sport. Method: Therefore, select components of state policies were identified including: 1) Affected entities, 2) Stipulations for concussion awareness/education, 3) Requirements for removal/return to play, and 4) Requirements for return to the classroom. Results: There is significant variance between the laws and not all children/adolescents are protected equally. Conclusion: Concussion policies are a minimum standard and, when available, best practices should be followed.