Medical Learning from the Special Olympics World Games 2015.

The Special Olympics World Games (SOWG) were held in Los Angeles, CA, during the summer of 2015. Medical care for 26 sporting events spread over six major venues across the city was provided to more than 6,000 athletes and 3,000 delegates from 170 countries. Education on care for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and athletes with additional medical issues was provided in addition to the usual sports medicine care.

Unexpected disasters at organized sporting events: considerations in preparation and response.

Preparing for the unexpected or unusual occurrence is always a challenge. When you add large collections of athletes and spectators, that challenge is certainly magnified, and proper planning and preparation are even more critical in reducing the damage done. The aim of this article is to stimulate thought toward preparing the medical director and staff in being ready to respond to the unexpected disaster at a sporting event.