Parents encouraged to schedule sports physicals early

Parents encouraged to schedule sports physicals early

Summer is here, and for most families that means road trips, pool days and a well-earned break from the school-year routine. But for the parents of student-athletes, there is one important item that should be handled before the fun truly begins: scheduling a pre-participation exam (PPE), also known as a sports physical.

School districts across the region require student-athletes to have a current PPE on file before they set foot on the practice field - and with many families racing to fulfill that requirement in the final weeks of August, appointment availability fills up fast. Emplify Health by Gundersen is encouraging parents to get ahead of the rush and book their child's sports physical today.

"We encounter this same pattern every year - families suddenly realizing in late July or early August that fall practices start soon and their student-athlete still needs a physical before the season starts," said Morgan Loken, an athletic trainer at Emplify Health by Gundersen. "Waiting until later in the summer can put real pressure on scheduling, and in some cases, put a child's ability to participate at risk. The solution: book early, take it off your plate and enjoy the rest of your summer knowing it's done."

A PPE is a comprehensive evaluation designed to identify any health conditions that could affect a young athlete's safety and performance. Each state has their own guidelines for when requirements must be complete. For example, in Wisconsin, student-athlete physicals must be done every two years, whereas in Minnesota, they are required every three years. Parents are encouraged to confirm their school district's specific requirements and deadlines, as some districts may have additional guidelines.

"A sports physical is truly an investment in your child's health and their ability to participate in the sport they love," Loken said. "Connect with your school or coach to better understand what your child will need to participate in upcoming sports and schedule your sports physical now. The earlier you can get on the schedule, the more time you have to focus on summer fun."

To help families start the summer with ease, Emplify Health by Gundersen is offering two sports physicals nights:

• June 15, 5 to 8 p.m. - Family Medicine Residency Clinic, La Crosse
• July 23, 5 to 8 p.m. - Sports Medicine Clinic, Onalaska

These PPE's can be billed through insurance or offer a $30 cash pay option. Appointments for these special times can be made by calling (608) 775-6680.

Don't let scheduling a sports physical dampen your summer plans. Schedule today by connecting with your child's pediatrician or primary care provider. To learn more about Emplify Health by Gundersen's sport physical services, please visit gundersenhealth.org/services/pediatrics/pediatric-primary-care.