A Career Built on Passion and Progress

During his undergraduate studies at the University of South Carolina, Josh discovered residency programs for athletic trainers, sparking his journey into sports medicine. “I didn’t know a ton about it at the time,” Josh recalls, “but it was very intriguing.”

After earning his undergraduate degree in athletic training, he pursued his master’s degree in kinesiology at LSU, where he gained hands-on experience working as an athletic trainer for LSU Athletics. When the COVID-19 pandemic began, Josh transitioned to Ochsner Health as an outreach athletic trainer. Soon after, he became the first participant in Ochsner’s Sports Medicine Assistant Residency Program, a 13-month immersive training program designed for athletic trainers. “The residency program was a game-changer for me,” Josh shares. “It gave me the tools I needed to succeed and the confidence to take on the unique challenges of this role.”

Josh’s progression didn’t happen overnight; it was the result of hard work, dedication and the support of his team. “They believed in me and gave me opportunities to grow,” he says. “It’s been an amazing journey, and I’m grateful for all the guidance I’ve had along the way.”

A Day in the Life: “Every Day is a Little Different”

Josh describes his role with pride and excitement. “Every day is a little different,” he shares with a smile. “We support physicians by evaluating patients, presenting findings and helping to implement treatment plans. This allows the doctors to spend more meaningful time with their patients. We also focus on patient education and handle logistical tasks, which help patients navigate the healthcare world and create an overall better patient experience.”

In the operating room or during in-office procedures, Josh and his fellow SMAs are hands-on, assisting physicians during procedures and ensuring everything runs smoothly. “We assist during the procedures themselves and help with tasks like skin closures or applying durable medical equipment. We also coordinate post-operative care with physical therapy and the care team. We’re here to make sure every detail is covered so physicians can focus entirely on providing exceptional care,” he explains.

The clinic is no less dynamic. Here, Josh uses his clinical expertise to evaluate patients and formulate differential diagnoses, identifying the most likely causes of a patient’s symptoms while ruling out others. He also educates patients on their conditions and treatment plans, fits them for braces, splints or casts and assists with coordinating care with other specialties if needed. This work ensures patients receive efficient, comprehensive care while improving the clinic’s workflow.

Teamwork at the Core

For Josh, teamwork is the heart of his role as a SMA. Every day, SMAs collaborate with physicians, physical therapists, athletic trainers and other clinical professionals to provide seamless, high-quality care. “It’s all about building relationships,” Josh explains. “We work closely with so many disciplines, which creates a cohesive team environment. That coordination not only improves care but also makes the patient’s experience more manageable.”

Josh credits his athletic training background as a key to his success. “The skills I developed as an athletic trainer, including patient evaluation, taping, bracing and education, translate perfectly into this job,” he shares. “It’s been such a natural fit for me and has been an excellent role for further advancing clinical knowledge and expertise.”

But for Josh, the rewards go beyond teamwork. “What I love most about my job is the impact we make on people’s lives,” he says. “We’re helping patients recover, regain their mobility and get back to doing what they love. It’s incredibly rewarding.”

Beyond patient care, the role of an SMA offers opportunities for personal and professional growth. From collaborating with a supportive team and gaining advanced skills through hands-on and didactic training, to assisting with cutting-edge research, Josh has found purpose in every aspect of his journey. His story is a testament to the power of teamwork and a reminder of how meaningful work can transform the lives of patients and the professionals who care for them.

Are You Ready to Pursue Your Purpose?

If you’re ready to turn your passion for sports medicine into a career of purpose, teamwork, and impact, we invite you to join the team at Ochsner Health. With advanced training programs, a collaborative culture and growth opportunities, you’ll feel supported every step of the way.

Pursue your purpose and apply today.