Let’s face it, everyone loves free stuff. But what can be better than crossing off those pesky school and sports physicals that always seem sneak up on you a week or so before they are needed. Well, let DMU take care of that for you!
On Saturday, July 30, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. in the Medical Education Center on the Des Moines University campus we will be conducting free middle school and high school student school or sports physicals.
DMU has offered free sports physicals to local children for years. In addition to educational information on health topics, the event will also include free EKGs, and ECHOs if indicated. Other optional services offered this year include dental screenings and mental wellness checks. All services are free.
“We know annual health screenings are important and not everyone can afford one. We love giving local families peace of mind that their child has been checked for serious health risks,” explained Melissa Wilder, director of community relations.
The EKGs and ECHOs are pain-free screenings of the heart that take only a few minutes to complete. Certified cardiologists will read the results and any unusual findings will be reported for follow up with the child’s physician. Sudden death due to heart problems is rare in young athletes, estimated at one in 200,000. Our goal is to reduce this risk even further by screening before the sports season starts for potential cardiac problems, including other abnormalities that are much less serious but still important for athletes to be aware of.
Students must bring a completed parental consent form and completed physical history forms with them. All students should wear shorts and t-shirts for the exam to make it easier to do the physical.
