The International Olympic Committee has announced the restructuring and renaming of its Department of Medicine and Science, which as of January 6, 2025 has been renamed the Department of Health, Medicine and Science (HMS). This change coincides with the addition of Dr. Jane Thornton OLY as the new director and underscores the IOC’s continued commitment to sports medicine and science.
The new name highlights the Department’s core mission: to protect and promote the health of athletes. As Dr. Thornton explained, “The addition of the word ‘health’ in our title marks an important and positive evolution. The new title emphasizes the focus on athletes and the centrality of protecting and promoting optimal health and wellness, both in sport and through sport.”
ATHLETE HEALTH AND WELLNESS
The Department’s work will focus on addressing key issues affecting athletes and the Olympic Movement. These include injury and illness prevention, clean sport, athlete protection, mental health and wellness, as well as medical services and research.
In addition, the Department will address emerging global public health issues and promote the benefits of lifelong physical activity. This renewed focus reinforces the IOC’s role as a leader in integrating science and health within the international sporting arena.