Global Soccer Health Care Resource Center
The Kansas City region is preparing to welcome a significant influx of visitors for a major international soccer tournament taking place in 2026. The regional health care community is working collaboratively to support resident and visitor health and safety during this period of increased activity. This Resource Center provides planning considerations, guidance, and tools to support health care readiness across the region.
Access the ToolkitQuick Links
Key Health Care Planning Areas
Health Care Planning Overview
- Anticipated 6–8% increase in health care volumes, primarily urgent care
- Expected population surges aligned with match and event days
- International visitors may be unfamiliar with the U.S. health care system
- Clear guidance needed for care access and hospital awareness
Surge Planning Focus
- Primary surge areas: Kansas City Metro and Lawrence
- Secondary surge areas: lodging clusters and travel corridors
- Daily coordination calls during peak event periods
- Capacity planning and staffing strategies across health systems
Safety & Security Coordination
- Multi‑jurisdictional safety and security framework
- Emergency response and medical coordination
- Cybersecurity and infrastructure preparedness
- Public‑private coordination across more than 45 agencies
Transportation Planning & Access
- Airport‑to‑downtown transportation options
- Direct stadium and venue service on match days
- Regional transportation hubs across the metro
- Health care access considerations near transit locations
Large‑Scale Community & Fan Events
- Multiple high‑attendance community events during the tournament period
- High‑volume attendance planning considerations
- EMS and first aid presence at key locations
- Coordination with locally organized community activities
Frequently Asked Questions
-
What should hospitals be doing now to prepare?
Hospitals in primary surge areas should engage operational teams to plan for a 6–8% increase in patient volume, primarily in urgent care. Facilities outside of primary surge zones should review transfer pathways and escalation plans.
-
How far from Kansas City and Lawrence should facilities plan for surge?
Hospitals within approximately 90 miles of the Kansas City region should consider proactive planning due to anticipated visitor travel patterns.
-
What insurance coverage will international visitors have?
Teams, media, and accredited groups participating in the international tournament may have event‑specific insurance coverage. Other international visitors are encouraged to obtain travel medical insurance prior to arrival.
-
How should hospitals prepare for billing international patients?
Facilities should plan for a mix of travel insurance and self‑pay patients and review billing, financial counseling, and payment policies accordingly.
-
Where will teams, officials, and delegations receive health care?
Designated care pathways will be coordinated by tournament medical officials, including pre‑identified hospitals for teams and accredited delegations. Time‑critical needs may be routed to the nearest appropriate facility.
-
Who should we contact for committee and subcommittee coordination?
Hospital and health care coordination for the 2026 global soccer event is supported through several regional working groups led by The University of Kansas Health System and the Mid‑America Regional Council. Key contacts include:
-
Health and Medical Working Group
Contact: Bryan Beaver or Erin Lynch -
Capacity Utilization and Infrastructure
Contact: Adam Olberding -
Hospital & EMS Coordination
Contact: Chris Winger -
Visitor Communication & Health Care Education
Contact: Laura McCarthy or Libby Hastert
-
Health and Medical Working Group
This website is an independent, community‑focused resource and is not affiliated with or endorsed by any international sports governing body or event organizer.