title: Concussion Ethics and Sports Medicine.
abstract: Despite considerable scientific dispute the science of concussion, there has been a proliferation of position statements and professional guidelines published on sports concussion management over the last 15 years. A number of ethical and clinical problems associated with concussion management protocols remain concerning, (i) diagnosis and management; (ii) conflicts of interest and coercion; (iii) same day return to play; and (iv) reporting, auditing and confidentiality. These issues are critically discussed in the light of recent Consensus Statements. It is argued that the use of independent match day doctors may ameliorate some of these concerns.
authors.affiliation: College of Engineering, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea SA1 8QQ, UK. Electronic address: m.j.mcnamee@swansea.ac.uk.
authors.forename: Michael J
authors.initials: MJ
authors.lastname: McNamee
authors.affiliation: Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland QLD 4072, Australia.
authors.forename: Bradley
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Partridge
authors.affiliation: Division of Health Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand.
authors.forename: Lynley
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Anderson
mesh_terms: D001265:Athletic Injuries / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000628:therapy*; D001924:Brain Concussion / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000628:therapy*; D000066491:Clinical Decision-Making / Q000941:ethics; D003219:Confidentiality; D016265:Conflict of Interest; D006801:Humans; D008485:Medical Audit; D008499:Medical Records; D020127:Recovery of Function; D012008:Recurrence; D013178:Sports Medicine / Q000941:ethics*
keywords: Australian football; Concussion; Conflicts of interest; Mild traumatic brain injury; Rugby league; Rugby union