Creating more awareness around concussion prevention is a primary goal of Paul Oliver Memorial Hospital’s new Director of Sports Medicine Matt Jackson, D.O.
Dr. Jackson practices sports medicine in Traverse City and joins the hospital to ensure Benzie area athletes receive the same kind of support as those in urban areas across the state.
“There is a gap in coordinated rural sports medicine between Traverse City and Grand Rapids,” he said. “The initiatives we’re working on are really in line with what you might expect to see in a metropolitan area, and help prepare student athletes for safety in whatever is next, whether that is college sports, active adult lifestyles, or in the workforce.”
Dr. Jackson commends the Paul Oliver Sports Medicine and Rehab team members for their work with local school districts to initiate athletic training services, create awareness of injury prevention, and concussion prevention and treatment. Often the athletic trainers also can help direct athletes and parents to the appropriate care setting should an injury occur.
“We view these health professionals as the quarterback for medical services,” he said. “They help identify issues early and get students where they need to be for care. My goal is to support them and grow the initiatives already in place in the region.”
A graduate of Touro University California College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2009, Dr. Jackson has formerly served as medical director for Central Michigan University Athletics and head team physician.
He is board certified in sports medicine.
For more information about Paul Oliver Memorial Hospital services, go to munsonhealthcare.org/pomh.