---
title: Baseline Concussion Testing Checklist | HEADCHECK Health
description: Learn why baseline concussion testing matters, how it works, and download our free checklist to ensure your team is prepared for a safer season.
---

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# [Baseline Concussion Testing Checklist | HEADCHECK Health](https://www.headcheckhealth.com/blog/baseline-testing-checklist)

 Written by [Dr. Jennifer Hunnicutt](https://www.headcheckhealth.com/blog/author/dr-jennifer-hunnicutt) | Mar 10, 2025 4:00:00 PM

## ***Baseline concussion testing can be a proactive measure to safeguard athletes. Learn more in this essential guide.***

### **What is Baseline Concussion Testing?**

Baseline testing is an assessment of brain function that provides a comparison point for when an athlete sustains a suspected concussion. For sports teams, baseline testing should occur before the season starts to establish a reliable benchmark. 

### **Why Does Baseline Concussion Testing Matter?**

Baseline testing promotes individualized athlete care. It helps healthcare professionals diagnose and manage concussions more effectively, ultimately improving return-to-play decisions and reducing the risk of long-term complications.

### **Baseline Concussion Testing Checklist**

HEADCHECK Health has created the following checklist to help sports teams prepare and know what to expect when conducting baseline concussion testing. This checklist aligns with the [SCAT6](https://cisgstg.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/SCAT6-v7.pdf) (Sport Concussion Assessment Tool 6), an internationally recognized concussion assessment protocol that is recommended by the [Concussion in Sport Group](https://www.concussioninsportgroup.com/). 

Download our complete [Baseline Testing Checklist (2025)](https://www.headcheckhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Baseline-Testing-Checklist-2025.pdf).

*Note:* The SCAT6 is for athletes aged 13+ years. For younger athletes (ages 5-12 years), refer to the [Child SCAT6](https://cisgstg.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Child-SCAT6-v5.pdf). Non-medical personnel should use the Concussion Recognition Tool 6 ([CRT6](https://cisgstg.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/CRT6.pdf)).****

- **Download the Right Tool**

- - - Healthcare professionals should use the [SCAT6](https://cisgstg.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/SCAT6-v7.pdf) or [Child SCAT6](https://cisgstg.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Child-SCAT6-v5.pdf).
          - Coaches, parents, and non-medical personnel should use the [CRT6](https://cisgstg.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/CRT6.pdf).

- **Schedule Testing Before the Sports Season Starts**

- - - Baseline tests should be conducted pre-season under the guidance of a healthcare professional, such as the [athletic trainer](https://www.headcheckhealth.com/athletic-trainers-concussion-management/).
          - Consider scheduling a team-wide testing day.

- **Ensure a Controlled Testing Environment**

- - - Testing should be conducted in a quiet, distraction-free setting.
          - Ensure good lighting and comfortable seating.

- **Collect Athlete & Medical History**

- - - Record athlete name and demographic information.
          - Record previous concussions and head injuries.
          - Document medical conditions that may affect recovery (e.g., ADHD, headaches, migraines, anxiety, depression, learning disabilities).
          - Note any current medications that the athlete is taking. 

**Assess Key Areas of Brain Function**

- - - Symptom Checklist
          - Athletes will document their symptoms and symptom severity based on how they typically feel in a checklist on the SCAT6. 
          - The healthcare professional will count the number of symptoms and document the symptom severity score. 
          - Cognitive Testing
          - Memory, concentration, and orientation assessments.
          - Balance & Coordination Tests
          - Evaluates postural control and movement.
          - Neurological Screening
          - Reflexes, eye movement, and motor function tests.

- **Document & Store Baseline Results**

- - - Securely store results in a centralized system for easy retrieval in the case of a suspected concussion. 
          - Ensure coaches, trainers, and medical staff have access to baseline information.

- **Educate Athletes, Parents, & Coaches**

- - - Explain the purpose and importance of baseline testing.
          - Emphasize early concussion recognition and reporting.
          - Provide resources on return-to-play protocols and how concussion testing will fit into those protocols.

- **Plan for Post-Injury Comparison**

- - - If an athlete sustains a suspected concussion, compare their post-injury SCAT6 results to baseline scores.
          - Work with a qualified medical professional for assessment, monitoring recovery, and return-to-play decisions.

- **Repeat Baseline Concussion Testing**

- - - Conduct baseline testing annually before the start of each sports season to ensure up-to-date data.  

- **Refer to HEADCHECK Health Checklists for Managing Concussions**

- - [Concussion Checklist for Parents](https://www.headcheckhealth.com/concussion-checklist-parents/) 
    - [Concussion Check for Coaches](https://www.headcheckhealth.com/concussion-checklist-coaches/) 

Baseline testing does not prevent concussions, nor is the SCAT6 a standalone diagnostic tool. But baseline testing offers a critical and important step in ensuring safer sports participation. By following this checklist, sports teams can enhance player safety, improve concussion management, and support athlete recovery.

#### **HEADCHECK Health**

On a mission to prevent and manage head injuries, HEADCHECK Health provides end-to-end solutions to execute concussion protocols, mitigate risk, and promote recovery. [Contact us](https://www.headcheckhealth.com/contact-us/) today to learn how we can help! 

[View full post](https://www.headcheckhealth.com/blog/baseline-testing-checklist)

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