27th May 2025

UPMC today announced an exclusive partnership with Vhi to enhance musculoskeletal (MSK) care for Vhi members. The new agreement will see UPMC Sports Surgery Clinic provide Vhi members with fast access to orthopaedic consultants and end to end surgical care pathways for ACL repair, hip and knee replacement, with non-surgical pathways to follow.

Musculoskeletal pain —from joint issues and sports injuries to chronic orthopaedic conditions—affect thousands of people across Ireland every year. The new partnership leverages UPMC Sports Surgery Clinic’s renowned clinical expertise in orthopaedics, sports medicine, and rehabilitation to deliver world-class care to Vhi members through an end-to-end care pathway.

The partnership introduces a new integrated care pathway for Vhi members which will provide faster and more seamless access to treatment options. From initial consultation through to recovery and rehabilitation, the new pathway will ensure Vhi members receive expert care that is timely, patient-centred, and underpinned by UPMC’s commitment to clinical excellence.

In 2023, over 250,000 Vhi members were treated for musculoskeletal related healthcare issues and Vhi paid out over €280 million in managing their care. Responding to the need for improved access, reduced costs and the need to deliver a more holistic care experience for Vhi members, UPMC Sports Surgery Clinic and Vhi have developed a comprehensive orthopaedic surgical and non-surgical pathway for Vhi members that guarantees faster access to care and reduces out of pocket expenses for Vhi members.

Key Benefits of the Partnership:

• Streamlined Access: Faster referrals and appointment scheduling for Vhi members.
• Comprehensive Treatment Options: Expert-led surgical and non-surgical care under one roof.
• Evidence-Based Rehabilitation: A multidisciplinary approach to getting patients back to full health and activity.
• Patient-Centred Experience: Coordinated care pathways designed around the needs of the individual.

Eamonn Fitzgerald, Managing Director of UPMC Ireland, said: "This partnership marks an important step forward in making high-quality musculoskeletal care more accessible to people across Ireland. Vhi’s trust in UPMC Sports Surgery Clinic in Santry is a reflection of our dedication to innovation, clinical outcomes, and putting patients first. This collaboration reinforces UPMC’s ongoing investment in Irish healthcare and underscores both organisations’ commitment to delivering life-changing medicine and better patient outcomes."

Aaron Keogh, Managing Director, Vhi Insurance DAC added: "We are delighted to partner with UPMC to enhance the MSK pathway for our members. Ensuring that our 1.2m members have access to expert care—delivered efficiently and with a strong focus on patient outcomes—is central to Vhi’s approach. This partnership supports that vision.”

The new surgical pathways are now available for Vhi members who require this and access is through GP referral with non-surgical pathways to follow.

ENDS