The Gaelic Players Association and UPMC, the Official Healthcare Partner of the GAA/GPA, have today launched a Priority Access to Care Pathway for inter-county players in need of support across Ireland. The new service was launched at the UPMC Sports Surgery Clinic in Santry, Dublin.
Today’s announcement ensures players will not be left without access to care or have to endure long wait times for key diagnostics and treatment services following an injury.
Under the pathway, GPA members can gain access to UPMC Sports Medicine services and clinical specialists across the country. The process is straight forward where players will be able to speak to a designated point of contact in the GPA who in turn will communicate the needs to UPMC.
Speaking to mark the announcement, GPA Welfare and Engagement Manager Colm Begley said; “When a player suffers an injury the last thing that they should have to worry about is getting access to the appropriate facilities to allow the correct diagnosis to be made. Unfortunately, this happens more often than Gaelic games supporters might think. We have identified it as an issue for our members and, working with our partners in UPMC, have taken the steps necessary to rectify the problem.
“Now all male and female inter-county players, no matter what county and code they represent, will be able to avail of this service and removes a potential barrier to them getting the best treatment available. This will not lessen the impact of any injury, but it will give players peace of mind in knowing they don’t have to worry about where or when they can get much needed scans.”
Speaking at the announcement, John Windle, General Manager, UPMC Sports Medicine, said: “We are proud to announce a Priority Access to Care Pathway, in partnership with the GPA, for inter-county players in Ireland. This initiative underscores our commitment to the well-being of athletes and our dedication to providing best-in-class medical attention, diagnostics, and care following injuries. Through this pathway, we aim to support inter-county players in their journey to recovery, ensuring they have swift access to the best medical resources available and UPMC is delighted to be part of their continued success on and off the field.”
UPMC is a global leader in healthcare with an expanding presence in Ireland. UPMC became the Official Healthcare Partner to the GAA/GPA in November 2019.
