Head injury and concussion information for medical providers

Medical Providers play a critical role in diagnosing, managing and clearing a student athlete diagnosed with a concussion to return to play.

DPH approved clinical training for clinicians providing medical clearance

Before a student athlete with a diagnosed head injury returns to their extracurricular athletic activity, they must be given medical clearance by an authorized medical provider. The regulations require that in order to clear a student to participate in extracurricular athletic activities, physicians, nurse practitioners, certified athletic trainers, physician assistants and neuropsychologists must receive DPH-approved training in traumatic head injury assessment and management or have received equivalent training as part of their licensure or continuing education.

SHIELD

School Health Institute for Education and Leadership Development (SHIELD) at Boston University School of Public Health (BUSPH): SHIELD offers innovative educational programs and leadership opportunities for school nurses and school health professionals:

• Contact: [e-mail]

Medical Clearance and Authorization Form

Medical providers should use the Department’s Medical Clearance and Authorization Form, or a school-based equivalent, to verify that they have completed a DPH-approved training in traumatic head injury assessment and management or have received equivalent training as part of their licensure or continuing education.

• Post Sports-Related Head Injury Medical Clearance and Authorization Form – English (PDF) | (DOC)
• Post Sports-Related Head Injury Medical Clearance and Authorization Form – Spanish (PDF) | (DOC)
• Post Sports-Related Head Injury Medical Clearance and Authorization Form – Portuguese (PDF) | (DOC)