Coming Soon: Required Electrocardiograms During High School Sports Physicals - Johns Hopkins Medicine

“We want people to take part in sports,” Dr. Milligan says. “The importance of sports and exercise for physical and emotional health is well-proven. But we want young athletes and athletic programs to be as safe as possible.” The typical sports physical is designed to look for a variety of health problems that might affect young athletes. The most significant of these involve cardiovascular issues, such as cardiac arrest.

Mercer Health is now scheduling 2026 sports physicals for area student athletes, offering families convenient access to required pre‑participation exams ahead of the upcoming school year. As part of this year’s program, students who complete their sports physical at a Mercer Health Medical Group location will receive a complimentary t‑shirt, while supplies last. Sports physicals play an important role in ensuring young athletes are healthy, prepared, and safe as they participate in school and community sports. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends completing a sports physical in conjunction with a comprehensive annual wellness exam with a primary care provider.