Document resource
Objectives This study aims to explore perceptions of the purpose, utility, and effectiveness of PPEs through the following objectives: 1) Examine related stakeholder assumptions and misunderstandings, 2) analyze how stakeholders value PPEs in relation to athlete safety, injury prevention, and overall health, and 3) provide insights to improve communication, education, and policy recommendations.Method We performed a qualitative thematic analysis of stakeholders regarding perceptions of the value of PPEs for scholastic athletes. Eligible participants included student athletes and parents if athletes were less than 18 years of age; school administrators; coaches; school-associated athletic trainers. Four schools agreed to participate in the project including one rural, one urban, one suburban public, and one suburban parochial school. Participants were identified at physician office visits, school-based PPEs, and in athletic training rooms at participating schools. Nineteen subjects were interviewed. Template based semi-structured interviews regarding PPEs occurred with participants at schools, physician offices, and virtually. Interviews were recorded and transcribed. Transcripts were then analyzed and coded based on qualitative thematic analysis. Each interview was analyzed by at least two members of the research team.Results Preliminary findings suggest a disconnect between stakeholder expectations and the available evidence. Consistent themes include: 1) Unrealistic expectations about which health issues can be identified during PPE screening; 2) The requirement for PPEs in scholastic sport settings exist to decrease the liability of the school; 3) The health benefits of PPEs are perceived to be much greater when completed with an established primary care provider compared to outside providers such as mass physical events or urgent care settings.Conclusions This is the first study of its kind assessing the value of PPEs with stakeholders. These results highlight the need for improved communication and education regarding the role and limitations of PPEs. We believe this could better align stakeholder perceptions with the existing evidence for or against PPEs. We also believe this project can inform future policy discussions on the utility of PPEs, whether PPEs should be mandatory, and what should be included in PPEs.