In-Depth Look: Health Director and Athletic Trainer in the Health Care Administration Field

Dr. LeKyndra “Red” Smith, Ed.D, LAT, ATC, CSM, CSPO is Health Director and Athletic Trainer (AT) in the health care administration field. Smith works for Project Transition, Inc., which is an organization dedicated to providing guidance to young individuals as they transition into their professional and athletic careers, offering support and resources to help them overcome any challenges and obstacles they may face. She has been a certified AT for 15 years.

Describe your setting:

I operate within two interconnected settings. I work in an environment that is committed to assisting individuals and communities as they navigate a variety of life transitions. This transition can encompass phases of personal, professional and educational development, with an emphasis on empowering participants through the provision of resources and guidance. I also work in an environment that prioritizes the provision of a living environment that is both independent and supportive to individuals with disabilities, mental health challenges, and/or other requirements.

Describe your typical day:

Wow! There are no typical days, which is what I love the most about my current career. A day may involve a review of the open action items from the previous day, a review of emails and a meeting with the administrative team and facility managers. Additionally, this portion of my day may involve the examination of EMR data entries, as well as strategic, operational and compliance control audits.

The second half of the day may be reserved for program development, strategic planning and special programs. These programs may include first aid and CPR, workplace violence prevention training, leadership and development education, risk prevention, Professional Assault Crisis training, health care education and OneLove Healthly relationship workshops. I frequently communicate with my mentor for advice and with my mentees to seek updates.

In addition, I am responsible for the following: coordinating with multidisciplinary teams, coordinating networking opportunities, identifying and pursuing potential funding opportunities, and establishing and maintaining partnerships. I allocate time to administrative duties, program development, Council on Practice Advancement (COPAs) HCA Panel and community outreach initiatives that are designed to advance the organizations’ objectives and mission.

What do you like about your position? What motivates you?

I enjoy the chance to have a significant influence on the lives of individuals who are overcoming obstacles associated with their personal transitions, whether it be from school or sport to career, from brokenness to wholeness, or from dependence to independence. The ability to implement innovative health strategies and other programming, the fulfillment that comes from fostering a supportive community, and the positive changes in the lives of clients and participants are the sources of my motivation.

What is your greatest achievement as an Athletic Trainer?

My greatest accomplishment as an AT was being the inaugural recipient of the Southeast Athletic Trainers’ Association Young Professionals’ Distinction Award in 2017.  This award was presented to a young professional who embodied the depth and breadth of character, service and professionalism in the field of athletic training. I have experienced numerous other exceptional moments in connection with the health care services I have rendered to the athletes and communities I have assisted, but there is something unique about being acknowledged by your peers.

What advice do you have about your practice setting for a young AT looking at this setting?

Initially, I would suggest that a young AT determine a position they are interested in pursuing. To position themselves for a future in this health care administration field, I recommend that young ATs initiate the process of relevant upskilling and the acquisition of new skills, with an emphasis on ethical and effective leadership and soft skills.

To conclude, I would suggest that they identify a mentor who is capable of offering the requisite assistance to help them accomplish their professional objectives.