Board of Certification for the Athletic Trainer (BOC) Practice Test

What form of risk reduction is employed when an athlete must purchase extra medical coverage and sign a waiver?

1. Avoidance

2. Records management

3. Reduction

4. Transference

The correct answer is: Transference

Transference is the correct concept in this context because it involves shifting the financial risk associated with potential injuries or accidents away from the individual or organization responsible for the athlete's care, to a third-party entity, such as an insurance company. By requiring athletes to purchase extra medical coverage, the organization is effectively transferring the risk of medical costs associated with injuries that might occur during participation in sports. This also emphasizes the role of waivers, which are legal documents that help protect the organization by making the athletes aware of the risks and liabilities involved in their sport, thus further transferring the responsibility and financial implications of any incidents that may occur. In contrast, avoidance would mean eliminating the risk entirely, which is not what is happening here since the athlete is still participating in activities. Records management pertains to the organizational aspect of handling documentation and does not directly relate to risk transfer. Reduction would involve implementing safety measures to lessen the possibility of injury or loss, which is also not the case in this scenario where financial responsibility is being delegated.