AdventHealth supports Hardee County student-athletes with free sports physicals, heart screenings

WAUCHULA, Fla. — AdventHealth supported Hardee County student-athletes in preparing for a safe and successful sports season by providing free sports physicals and coordinating low-cost heart screenings at Hardee Senior High School.

During a recent event, 58 students received free sports physicals and 38 completed electrocardiogram (ECG) screenings.

The event was supported by 14 team members from AdventHealth Medical Group in Wauchula and conducted in partnership with Who We Play For.

By removing financial barriers and bringing care directly into the community, AdventHealth is working to ensure more families have access to essential preventive services.

Sports physicals were offered at no cost, and ECG screenings were also provided for $20 with AdventHealth providing financial assistance as needed.

The event also helps families get ahead of new statewide requirements designed to protect student-athletes.

Beginning with the 2026–2027 school year, Florida’s Second Chance Act will require students to complete an ECG heart screening before participating in interscholastic athletics for the first time.

AdventHealth providers and care teams performed comprehensive evaluations, including blood pressure checks, musculoskeletal assessments and screenings for conditions such as heart murmurs, joint concerns and other potential health issues that could impact an athlete’s ability to safely compete.

While many assume young athletes are at low risk for heart conditions, research shows sudden cardiac arrest is more likely to occur in young athletes than in their non-athlete peers.

Conditions such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy can go undetected without proper screening. A physical exam, review of family history and an ECG can help identify those at higher risk.

“We’re honored to support student-athletes and families in Hardee County by making it easy for them to get this important preventative care close to home,” said Victoria Selley, DO, chief medical officer for AdventHealth in Wauchula, Sebring and Lake Placid. “Through these screenings, we’re helping identify potential concerns early and giving families peace of mind while their children safely participate in the activities they love.”

Parents are encouraged to consider their child’s health history when preparing for sports participation.

Additional evaluation may be recommended if a student has experienced fainting or chest pain during exercise or has a family history of sudden cardiac-related death.

For families who were unable to attend, AdventHealth Centra Care offers sports physicals and ECGs at convenient locations across Central Florida. To learn more or schedule an appointment, you can click here.