Orthopedic surgeons' perceptions of athletic trainers as physician extenders.

Mid-Atlantic orthopedic surgeons have the most accurate perception of PA-Cs, because they have more exposure to the profession within their clinics. Expo-sure to athletic trainers while serving in the role of team physician increased the accuracy of orthopedic surgeons' perceptions of the qualifications of ATCs. As more orthopedic surgeons become aware of the benefits that can be realized from the use of ATCs as physician extenders, opportunities in the clinical setting are likely to increase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]