Essentia Health encourages scheduling a sports physical – Brainerd Dispatch

BRAINERD — Essentia Health is offering

sports physicals

for student-athletes, from middle school to college, across Minnesota and Wisconsin that will be valid for next school year and beyond.

In Minnesota, sports physicals completed on or after April 13 are good for three years, and in Wisconsin, they are valid for two years when completed on or after April 1.

A sports physical, also known as a preparticipation physical examination, helps determine whether it’s safe for a child to participate in a certain sport. Most states, including Minnesota and Wisconsin, require that student athletes have a sports physical before they can start a new sport (including any practices) or begin a new competitive season. It is recommended that a child have their physical at least six weeks before their sports season begins so there is enough time to follow up on something if necessary.

“Sports physicals are a vital part of keeping student-athletes safe and healthy throughout their seasons,” said Dr. Jonathan KenKnight, a pediatrician at Essentia, in a news release. “They help us catch potential health concerns early and ensure that kids are physically ready to participate at their best. These visits also support overall wellness, helping kids stay healthy and active all year long.”

Forms are available online at

mshsl.org

in Minnesota. People may complete and sign the appropriate form before their appointment and bring a copy when they come in for their child’s physical. This form may also be completed via MyChart with an active account.

Sports physicals can be completed on their own or as part of a

well-child/teen visit

. Essentia Health reports well-child/teen visits are a great time to review a child’s health in all areas — growth, cognitive and social development, illness prevention, mental health and more. These visits are recommended annually.

Visits may be scheduled directly through a pediatrician or family medicine provider. They can also be scheduled by calling 844-663-1068, online through

EssentiaHealth.org

or through an

Essentia MyChart account

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