UF Health will treat Team USA Olympic athletes in preparation for the 2024 Paris Olympics and Paralympics as part of a new partnership with the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Medical Network.
Officials are expected to announce the partnership at Saturday’s University of Florida football game.
The partnership includes UF Health providing various types of care at no cost to Team USA athletes and Team USA athlete candidates in exchange for the marketing power of the partnership, according to UF Physical Therapy. Kevin Vincent, director of rehabilitation, told the Gainesville Sun.
He said medical care covers a variety of areas, including pregnancy and dentistry, depending on an athlete’s needs.
“I think we’ve known for years that University Health provides exceptional care,” said Vincent, director of the Running Medicine Clinic and Sports Performance Center. “If the Olympics partners with you to take care of the members of Team USA who are Olympic candidates, they’re saying it’s really high quality, and that’s what we’re going to do around the community.” This is a message that I want everyone to understand.”
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Although Vincent declined to provide specific numbers, there is a financial cap on the care provided to athletes. UF Health’s press release also states, “UF Health continues to donate significant funds each year to ensure the success of our athletes.” [U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee] It will support athlete-centered programs. ”
“Athletes who participate on the international stage in sports activities are the epitome of excellence,” UF President Ben Sasse said in a statement. “Our selection as a member of the USOPC’s medical network, which provides health care to Team USA members and those who aspire to represent Team USA in the future, reflects the excellent health care we provide through UF Health. Masu.”
UF Health is the network’s eighth member, but the first in the Southeast. The others include Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston, Texas, and University of Utah Health in Salt Lake City, Utah, which is the third national medical center. The agreement between USOPC and UF Health will last for two years.
Vincent said this partnership proves to the community that UF Health can provide comprehensive care to any Olympic athlete selected.
“It is an honor for all of us at UF Health to be entrusted by the USOPC to provide health care to athletes who aspire to represent our nation in international competition,” said David R. Nelson, president of UF Health. said. “Equally rewarding is knowing that we champion health care for everyone, not just our advocates. Quality care will be provided, and this is the same care we provide to these great athletes.”