UAB physicians will provide multiple services to Lawson State athletes. Photography: Tanner BurckardThe University of Alabama at Birmingham Sports and Exercise Medicine is now the official sports medicine provider for Lawson State Community College.
UAB physicians will provide multiple services to Lawson State athletes, including comprehensive musculoskeletal care such as surgical and non-operative treatments, primary care services, general medical condition management, mental health services, nutrition and dietitian services, cardiovascular work-ups, sickle cell trait testing, and on-site physician coverage during athletic events.
“The UAB Sports and Exercise Medicine team is thrilled to extend our world-class sports medicine care to Lawson State athletes,” said Irfan Asif, M.D., chair of the UAB Department of Family and Community Medicine. “As a proud historically Black college with a rich legacy of fostering positive change and community growth, Lawson State aligns seamlessly with our commitment to excellence. Our aim is to deliver the same unparalleled level of care that distinguishes our support for UAB athletes, ensuring Lawson State athletes receive top-notch medical attention, resources and support.”
Last semester, UAB Sports and Exercise Medicine, along with Champion Sports Medicine, performed pre-participation physicals for roughly 150 student athletes of Lawson State.
During these physicals, Lawson State student-athletes participated in a number of tests that assessed their general health, along with their specific physical condition and readiness for the demands of their respective sports. Providers performed sport concussion assessments, musculoskeletal exams, evaluation of cardiac and pulmonary function, and reading of standard vitals. Physicians and staff conducted physicals for all six competitive sports programs, including baseball, men’s and women’s basketball, women’s volleyball, cheerleading, and dance.
“As a UAB alumnus, I am proud of this partnership with our athletic department,” said Eric R. Agee, Ed.D., athletic director at Lawson State. “Student success, excellence and innovation are core values of Lawson State Community College, and the addition of the UAB Sports and Exercise Medicine team helps strengthen these core values for our student-athletes. Because of UAB’s renowned reputation, we know that our student-athletes are receiving the best-quality care.”
In addition to Lawson State, UAB Sports and Exercise Medicine provides comprehensive care to athletes from multiple organizations, including UAB Athletics, Alabama Ballet, Birmingham Legion FC, Bulls Hockey, United States Football League, USA Wheelchair Rugby, Vulcans Rugby, Birmingham United Soccer Association, and multiple youth athletics clubs and local high schools and middle schools across the state.