Sports Physicals & Heart Screenings for Student-Athletes
Florida’s new Second Chance Act adds an EKG/ECG heart screening for many high school athletes starting with the 2026–2027 season. Here’s what families served by Center Place Health should know — and where to get screened.
A New Step Before Tryouts
Under Florida’s Second Chance Act, many high school athletes must complete an electrocardiogram (EKG/ECG) before they are cleared to compete, beginning in the 2026–2027 school year. The screening is a quick look at the heart’s electrical activity and is designed to surface hidden conditions that a routine physical alone can miss — helping to reduce the risk of sudden cardiac events on the field.
Who Needs an EKG Screening?
- Every incoming ninth-grade student-athlete.
- Any student in grades 10–12 participating in school sports for the first time.
- A screening completed within the two years before the season can satisfy the requirement.
- If the EKG flags something unusual, a physician’s written clearance is required before competing.
Returning athletes are not required to test, but the FHSAA strongly encourages it. Always confirm the current rules and the EL1 form with your school’s athletic director.
What to Expect During the Test
An EKG/ECG is simple and painless. A technician places small adhesive sensors on the chest — and sometimes the arms and legs — to record the heart’s rhythm. Most screenings are finished in under five minutes and can reveal irregular heartbeats or other concerns worth a closer look by a cardiologist.
Where to Get Screened
Several affordable options are available to Southwest Florida families. Costs and contacts are listed below.
BEGINS JULY 8, 2026
Johns Hopkins All Children’s Outpatient Care
$25 per screening, with no insurance billed. Results are shared with your pediatrician and posted to MyChart. A prescription noting “Sports Screening” is recommended — the visit covers the EKG only, not a cardiology consult.
Call 727-767-3333
BEGINS JULY 8, 2026
Johns Hopkins All Children’s After-Hours Urgent Care
$25 per screening on a walk-in basis — no appointment and no insurance needed. Offered at the Tampa location with weekday evening and weekend hours. Results post to MyChart.
Call 727-767-8170
ACROSS THE COMMUNITY
Community Screenings with Who We Play For
$20 per screening, and no family is turned away for inability to pay. No insurance is used. Register online for an upcoming community event and receive your child’s results directly.
Call 321-247-8786
Questions About Your Athlete’s Physical?
The Center Place Health care team is here to help your family prepare for a safe, healthy season.
This page is provided for general information and is not medical advice. Requirements may change — please confirm current screening rules, deadlines, and the FHSAA EL1 form with your school’s athletic director.