EVENT AND MEDICAL OVERVIEW
All volunteer credentials were validated ahead of the Games , and volunteers were instructed to work within their scope of practice . The UAB Medicine physician leaders developed standardized medical protocols for heat , cardiac issues , concussion , illnesses , and minor injuries . These were reviewed by medical team leaders and followed at all venues . Education was provided before and during the event to all volunteers , and standardized educational materials – such as medical protocols , documentation , and instructions for venue setup and closing – were available at each venue . Additionally , a universal , easy- to- access website ( Volunteer Materials ) was created for medical staff that included all educational materials and instructions .
An urgent / acute care clinic was established by UAB Medicine to meet athletes ’ medical illness and injury needs . The clinic included a “ fast track ” for athlete visitors and featured medical providers , a laboratory , and imaging services . This process allowed for expedited access to care , allowing athletes to return to practice and competition as quickly as possible . Although not widely used , telehealth services was also available for athletes and team leaders / delegates to access after-hours care . For athletes needing sports medicine care after hours , they were able to access providers at a venue adjacent to the dorms . This pathway to a provider was commonly accessed for athlete evaluation and care during daytime hours . Once evaluated , the athletes visited the urgent / acute care clinic if imaging , laboratory , or other medical services were needed .
A mental health response plan for athletes was developed by UAB Medicine psychiatry and behavioral neurobiology providers , and an on-call provider response team was deployed . Athlete resource guides with UCAN and ICAN information were distributed to athletes upon arrival , and an on-call rotation of providers offered clinic access for behavioral health services . Telehealth services also provided additional access for behavioral health needs , and when follow-up care was needed , UAB Behavioral Health providers were available .
COVID-19 affected a small number of athletes and team members , with two teams leaving the competition due to positive tests . A testing protocol was developed prior to the athletes arriving , and a quarantine protocol was implemented within athlete housing for those testing positive . Return-to-home testing was made available for all athletes , team delegates , officials , and guests .
4 The World Games Playbook : Event and Medical Overview