Millions of children participate in sports. To ensure safe participation during practice and competition, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) encourages youth to receive a preparticipation physical evaluation (sport physical) as part of their routine health supervision visit.
Medical History Forms (in English) Formularios de Historial Médico (en Español)
We encourage athletes or their families to fill out a medical history form before the examination that includes standard elements important to consider in evaluating the patient’s eligibility to participate in sports. The forms are available as downloadable forms in English and Spanish.
The primary care provider should review the medical history in a private setting with the athlete and their guardian and again in private with the athlete should there be any confidential information the athlete would like to discuss.
The PPE physical evaluation form guides primary care providers in conducting a system-based examination to include cardiovascular, nervous system, general medical conditions, respiratory system, gastrointestinal and urogenital, dermatological, musculoskeletal and mental health.
Medical Eligibility
When determining medical eligibility, the primary care provider should have experience in evaluating athletes and determining if they are medically able to compete. Examinations in locker rooms or gymnasiums are discouraged as it does not provide the athlete with a confidential space for the PPE.
After the examination, the primary care provider can find the athlete:
- Medically eligible for sports without restrictions
- Medically eligible for sports without restriction, but further evaluation needed
- Medically eligible for certain sports listed on the form
- Not medically eligible for any sports, pending further evaluation
- Not medically eligible for any sports
A supplemental history form for Athletes with a Disability is also available.
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