Examining Long-Term Care for NCAA Student-Athletes: Improving Concussion Protocols and Healthcare

Sports-related concussions (SRC) are a significant issue in collegiate athletics, particularly in high-impact sports. While the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) has protocols for immediate injury management, they don't fully address the long-term effects retired athletes experience. This paper examines whether former NCAA athletes who suffered from SRC should receive more comprehensive concussion-related healthcare. Findings reveal that current NCAA measures, such as baseline assessments and return-to-play protocols, fall short in addressing the lasting physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges of student-athletes who suffered multiple SRC. Protocols and procedures set by professional leagues like the NFL and NHL highlight the NCAA's gaps in providing post-retirement care. The literature review argues for updated NCAA protocols, including enhanced diagnostic tools, improved post-concussion care, and extended healthcare coverage for retired athletes. By adopting these reforms and incorporating athlete perspectives, the NCAA can better support the long-term health of its student-athletes during and after their collegiate careers.