In Q1 of 2023, our Sports Medicine team was hard at work piloting the “One ATI Care Pathway.” It was an opportunity to empower our Athletic Trainers to use their expertise as MSK experts and to emphasize what Physical Therapists can do as primary care providers.

Even in the program’s early stages, it showed promise. Over 150 athletes benefitted from the care pathway at the onset, leading to it becoming a permanent fixture in August of 2023.

“From August 1 to the end of October 2023, over 225 athletes went directly to PT,” Sports Medicine Manager Tyler Nohren said. “Those that attended PT first received care two days faster and returned to sport five days sooner than those that went to the doctor first.”

“We are creating access for more people, getting them the care they need sooner, and allowing them to return to sport more quickly,” Tyler continued. “Not only that, but it saves families time and money on unnecessary MRIs and office visits.”

The program was so popular that Tyler and Sr Director of Care Delivery Optimization Ellen Shanley spoke about the initiative at this year’s NLE during the ATIx – a “Ted Talk” of sorts geared towards our leaders and team members. It was the opportunity for our team members to learn about the program firsthand before District Director Caleb Young shared its success with the rest of the industry at this year’s APTA CSM.

“This program is an incredible testament to what our teams can accomplish together as ONE ATI,” Tyler said. “So, I have to shout out our ATs and clinic ops teams. A big thank you and kudos to DD Caleb Young, MSCD Dan Curtis, CDs Jon Beaty, Denise McGowan, and Andrew Sibenaller for providing flexibility with their schedules to allow for great access and outcomes. Our providers are MSK experts in our communities, and this partnership proves that!”