The Importance of Heart Screenings for Student-Athletes

Sudden cardiac arrest stands as the top cause of death among student-athletes, often occurring without any prior signs. This is why the Miami-Dade School Board and the State of Florida mandate electrocardiograms for all student-athletes before participating in sports.

Why Heart Screenings Are Essential

High school sports play a significant role in students’ lives. They teach values like teamwork, discipline, and the importance of listening to coaches. While these experiences are valuable, the risk of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is a serious concern. With over 90% of SCA incidents proving fatal, preventive measures are critical.

To counter this risk, the Miami-Dade County School Board, supported by the State of Florida’s “Second Chance Act,” has made electrocardiograms (ECGs) obligatory for student-athletes. These screenings aim to prevent unexpected deaths on campus or during sports events.

Steps to Get Your Child Screened

The sports medicine community in Florida actively works to ensure athlete safety. Coaches are educated in CPR, and schools are equipped with automated external defibrillators (AEDs). Additionally, precautions are taught to prevent heat illness.

An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a straightforward, non-invasive test that evaluates heart electrical activity. It serves as an additional layer of protection, alongside the health questionnaire and physical exam. Various healthcare providers, such as Baptist Health and Nicklaus Children’s, offer these screenings for free or at reasonable costs. Florida law ensures these tests do not exceed $50.

The primary objective remains the safety of kid athletes. Although ECGs, like many screening tests, are not flawless and may show false alarms, the screenings allow for timely intervention. Early screening is advisable to address any potential issues promptly.

Though these instances are uncommon, the opportunity for a simple test can significantly impact a young athlete’s safety. This comprehensive approach is aimed at granting every student-athlete the opportunity they deserve to play sports safely.

Dr. Michael Swartzon, a sports medicine physician associated with Baptist Health South Florida, collaborates with the Miami Dolphins, Florida Panthers, and InterMiami CF. He can be contacted at [email protected].

This article was initially published on July 24, 2026, at 1:33 PM.