Certification for fight docs

[Boxingdoc]

Hope someone can help me as I haven't found the answer elsewhere on this site. I'm trying to determine how one goes about being a "fight doc" or the physician on duty for events. At one point, I was fighting FCR kickboxing. Did my stint at NAC 2000. I had to stop because of residency. I've finished my medical training and am now a board certified, DEA licensed, yada yada yada emergency physician. I'd like to give back to the sport that kept me sane in med school. Do I need a certification or license from IKF? Or do I just somehow hook up with those sponsoring the fights? Any input would be greatly appreciated.

Amy

[Michael Dean]

Amy, check out the link below. I would email the IKF directly to find out the answers that you need. You can call Steve Fossum at the number below and reach him most of the time. Remember He is on Pacific Time, try to call him in the afternoon or just send him an email. He will respond if you do. Another person that could help you is Dan Stelle “Bam Bam”! His email address is: Bambamstell@aol.com
I sure either of them can get you in the right direction.
Sincerely, Michael Dean

To Contact the IKF Headquarters Directly by E-Mail, Click Main@IKFKickboxing.com
Please indicate WHO the mail is directed to and or WHAT your mail is in regards to on the "SUBJECT" Line.
The IKF Headquarters is located in Newcastle, California, USA.
IKF Headquarters: (916) 663-2467. The Fax Number is (916) 663-4510.

IKF Officials Page:
http://www.ikfkickboxing.com/Physicians.htm

[Austin "OT" Baitman]

According to IKF regulations, you DO NOT need a license from IKF. Our regulations stipulate only that you must be licensed as a Medical Doctor (MD). If required by state law, you may need a license from your state boxing/athletic commission, in addition to your license to practice medicine. IKF will disallow any physician who is not in compliance with such laws.

[Boxingdoc]

Gentlemen,

Thank you for the information. I had originally sent an email to IKF and came to this board when I didn't get a response. I'm sure they are quite busy in the office.

I am moving to Virginia soon. As soon as I get settled, I hope to make myself available for events.

Sincerely,

Amy

[Austin "OT" Baitman]

According to the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation, you must have a separate license from their Boxing and Wrestling program to serve as a ringside physician for pro boxing or pro wrestling. I am unsure if this is required for kickboxing. To be safe, and avoid any sanctions against your medical license for acting outside license limits, I would contact the Department at (804)-367-8500, for a ruling.

If the Department rules you must have a ringside physician's license, the following apply:

1. You must have a minimum of FIVE YEARS expereince as a licensed physician to apply

2. You must maintain a valid, professional level, CPR certification at all times

3. From reading the regulations, it appears that there is no additional fee for the ringside physician license

[Boxingdoc]

An update for all of you who were so kind to give me information. I've been in contact with David Holland, the administrator for the Virginia Board of Professional Boxing and Wrestling. I am currently in some interesting discussions with him regarding professional shows.

Apparently, those rules are for professional fights and do not apply to amateur kickboxing matches unless they are part of a Pro/Am show.

Now that I have my Virginia license in hand, I would like to make myself available to promoters needing a physician for their fights. I'm located in Fredericksburg and could travel from Richmond to D.C. I'm still learning the geography of Virginia and would be willing to discuss other locations as well.

I hope I can be of use.

Thank you,

Amy Barabasz

[Tom Jensen]

Hey Doc:
Its great to see someone who truly loves the sport in medicine. Thanks for taking your love of the sport & fighters seriously!