Sports Medicine Physicians: Career & Application Guide

What do sports medicine physicians do?

Diagnose, treat, and help prevent injuries that occur during sporting events, athletic training, and physical activities.

This describes a U.S. occupation, not a live vacancy. Individual employers may use different titles and requirements.

O*NET reports these titles for this occupation. Compare the responsibilities in each posting before treating titles as equivalent.

Diagnose or treat disorders of the musculoskeletal system.
Order and interpret the results of laboratory tests and diagnostic imaging procedures.
Record athletes' medical histories, and perform physical examinations.
Refer athletes for specialized consultation, physical therapy, or diagnostic testing.
Provide education and counseling on illness and injury prevention.
Advise against injured athletes returning to games or competition if resuming activity could lead to further injury.
Examine, evaluate and treat athletes who have been injured or who have medical problems such as exercise-induced asthma.
Record athletes' medical care information, and maintain medical records.
Examine and evaluate athletes prior to participation in sports activities to determine level of physical fitness or predisposition to injuries.
Prescribe medications for the treatment of athletic-related injuries.

Check the employer’s requirements, location, schedule and any licenses against your situation.
Choose two or three tasks above that match the posting and your actual experience.
Build a resume evidence worksheet using the skills and software relevant to that employer.
Practice explaining your contribution, decisions and results before an interview.

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