Statement from Beverley Analuwa, BAFA Head of Medical and reminder of BAFA Medical Guidance
Unfortunately, serious injuries and incidents can and do occur in our sport, and while we cannot always control these, we urge teams to ensure they are using healthcare professions appropriate to their division and adhering to the BAFA Medical Guidance.
Recent incidents where emergency medical attention has been required – and the excellent actions of first-responders – have demonstrated the importance of remaining vigilant in what often may be life-saving interventions.
BAFA seeks to ensure that everyone involved in the sport receives the best care possible in crisis moments while waiting for emergency services assistance when needed. Teams are reminded to check with their medical cover personnel that they are confident to deal with all situations, including life-threatening conditions, as it has been evident that there are incidences that do not always involve musculoskeletal injuries.
We also urge teams to check that their Emergency Action Plan is reviewed and updated when required. This should be in conjunction with the medical cover provider for game day and first aiders at training sessions.
I would like to thank all the medical personnel and support staff for their immediate response in our recent life-threatening incidences and wish the players a speedy recovery.
Resources
St John’s Ambulance – https://www.sja.org.uk/get-advice/first-aid-advice/heart-conditions/cardiac-arrest/
British Heart Foundation – https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/conditions/cardiac-arrest
NFL – Recognise, react, rescue: effectively treating sudden cardiac arrest
As the Head of Medical & Anti-Doping Lead for BAFA, Beverley is responsibility for crucial operational services and advancing sports medicine within BAFA. She is also working towards aligning medical standards across our governing body.
She is BAFA’s point of contact and medical advisor for our National Programme General Manager and Team Managers, and for clubs acts as medical liaison for BAFA finals events and for National Programme home games in collaboration with the new GB co-lead therapists.
