International Athletic Training and Therapy: Comparing Partners in the Mutual Recognition Agreement

Abstract

Context The globalization of athletic training and therapy is advancing and professionals have more opportunities to transition to international working environments. Objective To compare the American, Canadian, and Irish athletic training and therapy education, accreditation, and certification processes. Background The Mutual Recognition Arrangement recognized the equivalency of athletic training and therapy in the United States, Canada, and Ireland, and thereby provides an avenue for nationally credentialed professionals to obtain equivalent credentials in one of the aforementioned countries. Synthesis As a comparison, this article demonstrated that there was a commonality among countries, but also highlighted the unique jurisdictional differences that our members should be aware of should they want to transition to partner countries. Results We performed a comparative analysis of the education, accreditation, and certification processes among the United States, Canada, and Ireland. Specific differences were noted among supervision methods, clinical education methods, and certification exams. All of these are grounded in the Mutual Recognition Agreement. Recommendation(s) We recommend that the Mutual Recognition Agreement be held as a basis for future partnerships with other countries. Conclusion(s) This article provided an overview and highlighted the similarities among academic education, domains, and content areas covered under the Mutual Recognition Agreement among athletic training and therapy programs in the United States, Canada, and Ireland. The education programs, accreditation procedures, and certification systems, although differing in structure, were consistent in delivering content that aligns with the Mutual Recognition Agreement.