UPMC Priority Access to Care Pathway Working for Players
UPMC, the Official HealthCare Partner of the GAA/GPA, have been a key resource for gaelic footballers, hurlers and camogie players in ensuring they have access to high-quality healthcare and sports medicine facilities.
In 2023, UPMC and the GPA launched a Priority Access to Care Pathway, enhancing the support system for inter-county players across Ireland. The partnership ensures that inter-county players receive priority access to key diagnostics and treatment services following an injury.
Leitrim hurler, Tadhg Brannagan was a beneficiary of the programme, following persistent trouble with a bulging disk in his back.
“It was taking a long time to get an appointment to get my injury looked at. In Leitrim hurling, we probably don’t have the same connections as other counties to get a scan done. I happened to be taking part in the GPA’s Beo 360 Development Programme and I mentioned delay in getting seen to Arron. Colm Begley then contacted UPMC and within a week, I had an appointment at UPMC Aut Even in Kilkenny.”
The partnership with UPMC allowed Tadhg to get back on the field and see out the season.
“It was brilliant, without it, I wouldn’t have been able to finish out the season, but they put a plan in place and I got an injection which allowed me to play in the remaining games.”
Monaghan footballer Jodie McQuillan had a similar experience after an injury sustained in February this year.
“I hurt my knee at county training and our GPA rep told me about the priority access to care programme. I was put in contact with John Windle and within two days, I was getting a scan in the UPMC Sports Surgery Clinic in Santry.”
Luckily, Jodie avoided a serious injury and was able to get back on the field, but she highlighted how waiting on getting injuries seen to can lead to stress and anxiety.
“With injuries, the unknown is the worst; when you are waiting and wondering how bad the injury is and wondering when you might be back playing, but the speed of getting the scan alleviated that stress. My county physio was sent a report the following day and we were able to start the recovery that week.”
Tadhg and Jodie are two of many GPA members, past and present, who have benefitted from the GAA/GPA – UPMC Partnership. UPMC also provides concussion testing to county teams and further care for those who require it. UPMC also work closely with the GAA on its concussion protocols and guidelines, ensuring best practice is observed.
For further information or access to this support, please contact colm@gaelicplayers.com
