Sports Physicals Services

At Southern West Virginia Health System, we want to make sure that athletes in our communities have access to services that allow them to participate in activities that can benefit them on their journey towards living their healthiest lives.  

Before your child participates in an organized sport(s), you may be required to turn in a document showing he/she has completed a sport physical. Sports physicals are important health exams that ensure athletic participation in sports is safe.   

Who should get a sport physical?  

Most schools, organizations, and other extracurricular activities require children participating in a sport(s) to receive a sport physical to ensure that your child does not have an underlying condition that could negatively impact the child’s health.  It is a good practice to ask the coach, activity organizer, or athletic organization if a sports physical is required ahead of time so that you can make certain your child/children have the necessary sports physical requirement performed. 

What can I expect at a sports physical appointment?  

A sport physical may consist of various items that may include but are not limited to: 

• Questions regarding your child’s health history 
• Checking your child’s vital signs 
• Completing a vision screening – if your child wears glasses or contacts you will need to bring them for the vision screening portion 

Often the following areas are checked for any signs of a health-related condition as well: 

• Mouth  
• Lymph nodes 
• Skin 
• Pulse 
• Respiratory  
• Cardiovascular 
• Abdomen  
• Genitourinary (males only)  

It’s important to remember, as a parent/guardian this is also a time that provides you the opportunity to ask any questions that you may have regarding your child’s health.  

How often does my child need a sports physical?  

Sports physicals are typically required each year.  

Does Southern West Virginia Health System offer free sports physicals?  

At Southern West Virginia Health System, we provide sports physicals that are free of charge at our School-Based Health Center locations.  

We also host specific days throughout the year that our clinic locations provide free sports physicals as well.  We encourage you to call a clinic near you to find out when we are providing free sports physicals, and how you can schedule an appointment.  

What does my child need to bring to get a sports physical at one of your School-Based Health Center locations?  

Parents do not have to be with their child if their child is receiving a sports physical at one of our School-Based Health Center locations, but the student must bring a completed Sports Physical form with the parent/guardian signature with them. Additionally, if your child wears glasses, they will need to bring them for the vision screening portion of the physical.