The varsity-style lettering on the crimson sign blends perfectly with other game day imagery, and thousands of Sooner fans walk briskly past it as they prepare to climb to their seats. Most people won’t find themselves in the Gomer Jones First Aid Center located near Section 19 on the ground level inside Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium—but for those who do, the 8-bed clinic can be a lifesaver. 

According to a survey from the University of Missouri School of Medicine, most NCAA Division 1 football stadiums have more modest facilities to assist fans during games. Unlike OU, less than a quarter have physicians solely dedicated to the care of fans and other support staff. 

Dr. Ricardo Rodriguez shared his insights from his first football season leading the Gomer Jones Center medical team. 

How would you describe the atmosphere in the clinic early in the game, before you see any patients?

It’s congenial and very cohesive. The nursing support and volunteer staff are outstanding and bring decades of experience with them.  

What kind of difference does it make in a patient’s outcome if medical care is available at the stadium?

I think it makes a big impact. Many of the patients that we see would otherwise need to be transported via EMS to either an emergency room or an urgent care, significantly impacting resources for more life-threatening conditions. 

Most of the patients we see are discharged after receiving care. This can include simple first aid, such as over-the-counter pain or anti-nausea medication, or more invasive care such as IV hydration. They can then enjoy the rest of their day at the stadium.

What types of medical issues commonly emerge onsite during game days?

The conditions are varied and include mild to moderate cases of dehydration with symptoms such as dizziness or nearly passing out. But we have seen very complex patients come in, including a heart attack and possible blood clots or pulmonary embolism. 

Our nursing staff tries to follow up on patients, and these examples did well. They were treated at local facilities and discharged home after receiving care. 

How can fans prepare and take care of themselves before and during the game so they can avoid needing your services?

Dress for the weather and wear sunscreen. Hydration is key. If you’ve eaten a meal, drink plenty of water. However, if you haven’t eaten or if you are drinking alcohol, then electrolyte solutions such as low-sugar Gatorade or Liquid IV would be better. 

All care offered to fans at the center is free of charge, funded by a partnership between Norman Regional Health System and Sooner Sports. The facility is also supported by the Gomer Jones Memorial Endowment Fund at the University of Oklahoma Foundation.

To comment on this story, click here.