UAB Medicine Provides Outstanding Healthcare Support for First Responders at the 2025 World Police & Fire Games

The University of Alabama at Birmingham served as the official medical authority for the 2025 World Police & Fire Games, held in Birmingham from June 27 to July 6. This global event brought together more than 8,600 athletes from nearly 70 countries, promoting athletic competition and camaraderie among police, firefighters, and first responders worldwide. UAB Medicine skillfully orchestrated all health-related services for the games, which included sports medicine support, emergency management, and precise monitoring of athletic injuries and medical requirements. Detailed medical strategies and protocols were developed, with healthcare professionals assigned to 22 venues across the region and volunteers available for prompt assistance during the ten-day event. UAB Emergency Medicine collaborated with UAB Sports and Exercise Medicine extensively. Over 200 medical volunteers successfully handled more than 1,300 patient interactions, resulting in just 14 athlete disqualifications. "It was an honor to provide support to these brave individuals and ensure high-quality care," remarked Dr. John Lax, reflecting on this significant event.