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What is a sports physical?

Most middle schools and high schools in California require a sports physical prior to participation on a team.  Busy schedules make it tough to schedule time with your primary care physician.  At Urgent Care and TeleHealth in Napa, Sonoma, Petaluma and Benicia, we make it convenient for you by offering after-hours and weekend appointments. In addition walk-ins are always welcome!

The sports physical exam is also known as a preparticipation physical examination (PPE).

The exam helps determine whether it’s safe for your child to participate in a certain sport. Most states actually require that kids and teens have a sports physical before they can start a new sport or begin a new competitive season. But even if a sports physical isn’t required, doctors still highly recommend getting one.

Is a sports physical covered by insurance?

We do not accept medical insurance for sports physicals and there is an out-of-pocket cost. Please call the clinic to inquire about the price. FSA and HSA cards can be used for payment.

What to know before your visit

Bring any required forms including a completed health and immunization history. We included links below to the forms for many of the school websites, but please double-check with your school to make sure that you have the latest paperwork.

What to expect at your visit

The two main parts to a sports physical are the medical history and the physical exam.

Questions about current health, medical history and lifestyle habits including:

• Family history – specifically regarding cardiovascular disease/heart problems at young ages
• History of concussions
• Chronic illnesses, such as asthma, diabetes or epilepsy
• History of dizziness, fainting, headaches or chest pain
• Vision or hearing problems
• High or low blood pressure
• Allergies
• Past injuries, including sprains, strains, or broken bones
• Previous surgeries or hospitalizations
• Drug, alcohol, nicotine or supplement use
• Eating disorders
• Current medications

Physical exam that includes:

1. Measurement of height, weight, pulse and blood pressure
2. Exam of heart, lungs, abdomen, ear, nose, throat, vision, neurological functions, joints, flexibility, strength and posture

Find Your Athletic Medical Clearance Form

Note: Please double-check with your school to make sure that you have the most current form.

Schools Near Our Napa Clinic

American Canyon Athletics Medical Clearance Form

Napa Valley Unified Medical Clearance Form

Schools Near Our Sonoma Clinic

Sonoma Valley High Athletics Information

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