MLB's San Diego Padres have decided against renewing their contract with healthcare provider Scripps Clinic, according to a Sports Business Daily report, citing UC San Diego's "research capabilities" as the main reason for the switch.
Catherine Robertson, MD, a board-certified surgeon practicing at various UC San Diego locations, replaces Heinz Hoenecke, MD, as the team's head physician. Dr. Hoenecke had practiced with the Padres for 19 years, spending 10 of those years as the team's head physician.
Dr. Robertson specializes in shoulders, knees and hips, and has been a team physician for many of San Diego's professional, college, and high school sports teams over the years. Most notably, her work as a team doctor for the NFL's San Diego Chargers came to an end earlier this month when the Chargers relocated to Los Angeles, stripping UC San Diego Health of one of its most significant partnerships in the process. The healthcare provider's agreement with the Padres could help alleviate the negative ramifications that were caused by the Chargers' move, according to the report.
In an era where the demand for sports innovation grows by the day, the Padres were attracted to UC San Diego's commitment to research and develop new player care strategies.
Scripps, which had been the Padres' healthcare provider since 1981, released a statement thanking the Padres for their long and successful relationship, noting that they look forward to continuing their sports medicine work and advancing athletes' careers in the future.