In a statement that emphasizes a shared dedication to patient care and the advancement of population health, APTA and the National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA) have announced a commitment to more collaboration among the 2 organizations. And they're encouraging individual members and stakeholders to do the same.

The joint statement, issued December 19, calls for collaboration around legislative efforts, public relations initiatives, and interprofessional practice, among other areas. According to the 2 organizations, that collaboration could include better public and interprofessional education on the clinical training of both professions, promoting regulation that reflects the education and training of the professions, increased access to services, development of youth sports safety initiatives, and identification of best-practice models of care that highlight interprofessional practice and "the value of athletic training and physical therapy across health care."

"APTA and NATA share the belief that quality health care is becoming increasingly collaborative, and it’s in the best interest of our patients and clients, and our members, to work together when possible," said APTA President Sharon Dunn, PT, PhD. "The fact that APTA and NATA already share members is a sign that we have common interests. This statement affirms our mutual interest in exploring activities that jointly advance our common goals."

Founded in 1950, NATA has a worldwide membership of approximately 45,000.

"Our organizations have an opportunity to work collaboratively to advance patient-centered care as well as overall population health," said NATA President Tory Lindley, MA, ATC. "This statement reflects an important first step toward exploring opportunities to work together for the benefit of our members and, most importantly, the patients we serve.”