As Official Health Insurance Partner, the healthcare specialists have already provided support for around 48,000 treatments over a 13 year period, ranging from diagnostic tests and MRI scans to surgical procedures.

The extension means they will continue to support UK Sport’s Athlete Medical Scheme (AMS), consisting of access to specialist medical treatment when expertise outside of the day to day medical support is required.

Delivered alongside the English Institute of Sport, UK Sport’s science, medicine and technology arm, Bupa will also support elite athletes in their recovery from illness and injury and their work has recently been extended to include those suffering with mental health issues.

One athlete who has benefited is cyclist Becky James who, after winning two golds at the 2013 World Championships, has endured two injury ravaged seasons, requiring knee and shoulder surgeries through the scheme.

“As an athlete, knowing we’ve got access to the outstanding medical support and expertise from Bupa UK, as well as the day to day support we receive, is incredible," said the Welsh star, who will remain an official Bupa UK ambassador.

"It allows me to stay completely focussed on training and competing, knowing I’ve got access to the best expertise available.

“I have witnessed first-hand the benefits of the Bupa UK partnership.

"The expert treatment has allowed me to focus on my recovery and come back a better athlete.”

The partnership with Bupa forms part of £377 million ($581 million/€516 million) of National Lottery and Government funding spent by UK Sport to help athletes prepare for events including next year's Games in Rio de Janeiro.

“UK Sport’s continued partnership with Bupa UK demonstrates the importance of injury prevention and fast recovery in the world of elite sport where fine margins can make all the difference," said UK Sport chief executive Liz Nicholl.

“With just under a year to go until the Rio 2016 Games this renewed partnership, which complements the world class care provided by the home country sports institutes, is sure to provide fantastic peace of mind for athletes and coaches allowing them to concentrate on their performances and get to the start line confident they are among the best prepared in the world.”

Bupa UK corporate director Patrick Watt added: ”I am proud to announce that we have extended this partnership into its 13th year and beyond.

"It shows that our health insurance and medical expertise continue to be relied upon by the UK’s best athletes, and will allow sports professionals to access the best possible medical care quickly for three more years.”

Related stories
June 2014: UK Sport renews partnership with Bupa