USA Health to offer sports physicals for Mobile high school students
In addition to physical exams, students will have the opportunity to receive CPR and AED training, skills that can be critical in responding to medical emergencies on the field or in the community.
By Carol McPhail
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USA Health Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine is partnering with Mobile-area high schools to offer free sports physicals for student-athletes and marching band members during a special event Friday, May 29.
The all-day event will be held at the University of South Alabama’s Mitchell Center, with each participating school assigned specific arrival times to help manage student flow. More than 750 student-athletes and band members participated last year.
“These screenings are about more than eligibility; they’re about safety, prevention, and making sure every student has the knowledge and clearance they need to participate confidently,” said Peter Rippey, M.D., CAQSM, sports medicine physician at USA Health and assistant professor of family medicine at the Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine. “Events like this also give us a chance to teach life-saving skills that can make a real difference in an emergency.”
During the screenings, healthcare providers will conduct comprehensive evaluations, including checks of blood pressure, vision, heart and lung function, abdomen, and ears, nose and throat. Students will also be assessed for posture, joint health, strength and flexibility, and clinicians will review any medical concerns or conditions that may need follow-up care.
Students interested in participating should contact their band director, coach or athletic trainer. For more information, call USA Health Sports Medicine at 251-660-6458.
