25 Years On: UPMC Concussion Program’s Global Legacy and Impact

By: UPMC

First Friday, UPMC’s digital internal magazine, publishes monthly and aims to capture the spirit of innovation, dedication to caring, and attention to quality that permeates the work done across UPMC every day. 

Guided by the voices of patients and expert clinicians, the UPMC Sports Medicine Concussion Program was built on evidence-based care, compassion, and innovation. For over 25 years, its vision has advanced concussion diagnosis, treatment, and research — empowering individuals, transforming lives, and setting global standards for safe participation in sports and daily life. 

From clinicians transforming concussion care, to employees shaping our culture of engagement, and staff embodying the UPMC Values in their daily work, each story in September’s First Friday focuses on our employees who are making a difference. Every moment, big or small, contributes to UPMC’s shared goals, mission, and values. 

25 Years On: UPMC Concussion Program’s Global Legacy and Impact  

The UPMC Sports Medicine Concussion Program celebrates a milestone anniversary of pioneering clinical care and research. Led by Michael “Micky” Collins, PhD, and Anthony Kontos, PhD, the efforts and vision of both clinicians reflect how a local initiative for concussion care in Pittsburgh grew to become a global standard. 

The Values That Define Us 

Our staff illustrate the UPMC Values through everyday acts of care. These moments, whether in trauma units or outpatient clinics, illustrate how our core values translate into meaningful patient experiences. Learn more about the people and teams recently featured in the “This Is UPMC” video. 

Note: some links within the digital magazine are only accessible for UPMC employees and will not open for external readers.