When elite athletes step onto the ice with Olympic dreams in reach, their focus is singular: perform at the highest level. However, just beyond the boards is a team equally prepared, ready to respond in seconds, make high-stakes decisions, and ensure those athletes can compete safely.
That team includes physicians and athletic trainers from SSM Health, led locally by Dr. Jamil Neme, a primary care sports medicine physician at SSM Health Saint Louis University Hospital, who recently served as local medical director for the U.S. National Figure Skating Championships in St. Louis.
“Most Olympic-level athletes travel with their own medical providers year-round,” Dr. Neme explained. “But when competitions of this size come to town, local medical teams step in to provide extra hands, added expertise and seamless coordination of care if something happens.”
Preparing for the moment, months in advance
While fans see only the competition week, medical coverage for a national championship begins months earlier. Dr. Neme and the SSM Health Sports Medicine team worked closely with event organizers to plan every detail, from supplies and staffing to emergency action plans and hospital coordination.
“We map everything out ahead of time,” he said. “Where athletes go if they’re injured, how they exit the building, where EMTs are positioned, and which hospital or imaging services they’ll need. That preparation allows us to move quickly and calmly once competition begins.”
During the championships, SSM Health staffed each day with two physicians and approximately five athletic trainers, providing coverage for practices and nationally televised events alike.
Care under pressure
While SSM Health supports athletes across high schools, colleges and community programs throughout the region, national championships bring a unique intensity.
“With Olympic-eligible athletes, everything is notched up,” Dr. Neme said. “Timing is critical. You might have just a few minutes to evaluate a possible concussion or injury before an athlete needs to return to the ice for a televised performance. The stakes are incredibly high.”
Those decisions can influence not just competition but an athlete’s Olympic future. For the SSM Health team, it’s a responsibility they’re prepared to carry.
This level of care isn’t new for the group. The Sports Medicine team previously served as the local medical partner for Olympic gymnastics trials, reinforcing its ability to support athletes competing at the highest levels of sport.
A depth of expertise that makes a difference
What allows SSM Health to step confidently into these moments, Dr. Neme said, is the depth and collaboration of its Sports Medicine program.
“We have primary care sports medicine physicians, orthopedic specialists, athletic trainers, physical therapists and strong relationships with other specialties,” he said. “Whether it’s imaging, emergency care or follow-up treatment, everyone is ready when we call.”
That team-based approach extends far beyond elite competitions.
“Yes, there’s more pressure with Olympic-level athletes,” Dr. Neme noted. “But we bring the same commitment to a high school student or college athlete. Getting them seen quickly, treated properly and back to what they love, that matters just as much.”
Supporting dreams at every level
As the Winter Olympics approach, the work happening behind the scenes at events like the U.S. National Figure Skating Championships offers a reminder that elite performance is never a solo effort.
Behind every routine, every jump and every medal-worthy moment is a medical team prepared for the unexpected, ready to support athletes not only in their biggest moments, but throughout their entire journey.
“We’re proud to be part of that journey,” Dr. Neme said. “Whether someone is chasing an Olympic dream or playing their first competitive sport, our goal is the same – deliver exceptional care, exactly when it’s needed.”
