Cleveland Browns Announce University Hospitals as Official Health Care Partner

February 2, 2014

The Cleveland Browns have announced the University Hospitals (UH) in Cleveland as the official health care partner of the NFL franchise for the next 10 years.

As the Official Health Care Partner of the Browns, University Hospitals Case Medical Center, the health system’s nationally recognized academic medical center, will provide a complete team of physician specialists covering every aspect of the team’s health care needs.

Both organizations’ leaders described a commitment to co-create an innovative sports medicine program based on medical and scientific evidence-based research to advance the athletic performance and the overall health and fitness of the Browns players.

“We are extremely pleased to announce this partnership with University Hospitals,” said Cleveland Browns President Alec Scheiner. “Health and safety are very important issues not only for our players but also for our staff. Our goal is to continually and aggressively look at how we can positively affect our organization. Through this medical partnership, we will further develop innovative and comprehensive programs that enhance athletic performance and wellness.”

In collaboration with the Browns, UH has agreed to develop a trans-disciplinary sports medicine team that includes nearly all medical specialties. 

“The entire sports world is indeed on the brink of real change when it comes to caring for its athletes,” said Joe Sheehan, Browns Head Athletic Trainer. “Organizations which develop unique and exceptional comprehensive systems dedicated to the growth and development of their athletes, in the physical, mental and fundamental domains, will redefine the industry standard of care.”

UH will also manage and provide urgent care to Browns fans at FirstEnergy Stadium and health and wellness programs for the Browns franchise and their families. In a separate agreement, UH will become a sponsor of the Cleveland Browns that extends to 2024. As part of that investment, UH will receive extensive signage at the stadium and other advertising opportunities.

“University Hospitals and the Cleveland Browns will redefine sports medicine in ways that will benefit professional and amateur athletes at every level,” said Thomas F. Zenty III, CEO of UH. “We are honored to provide an all-inclusive approach to the Cleveland Browns’ organization. Our goal is to provide the Browns with the most innovative, comprehensive health care program in the NFL and to support them all the way to a championship.”