Quote:
Originally posted by ljudge
From this instance I can think of, it's my understanding an official is obligated to touch a injured player. If a game official or member of the chain crew is working the game and happens to be an EMT, he or she is an EMT first and an official second. (That's what he told us any way).
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This is not true in all states. Medically trained personnel don't have a legal obligation to act when a bystander or passerby. Ethically yes, but legally no. For instance, a trauma doctor is under no legal obligation to stop his car when passing a traffic accident with obvious injuries. However, if he does become involved, he must stay involved until the crisis passes or relieved by an equivalent or higher medical authority.
The legal question that could be raised, is a person hired to be an official a bystander for purposes of providing medical treatment? Or once one has been hired on in any capacity, must he also assume medical duties if trained to do so?
Good question. I doubt that the answer is the same everywhere.