VCS Student-Athletes Eligible For Free ECG Screenings

DeLand, FL -  AdventHealth, through a partnership with Volusia County Schools (VCS), is, for the first time, offering free electrocardiogram (ECG) screenings in addition to the annual state-required sports physical for middle and high schoolers. According to statistics, sudden cardiac arrest is one of the leading causes of death among high school athletes. the goal of the screenings is early detection and treatment of heart abnormalities.  One in 300 student-athletes is estimated to have an undetected heart condition that puts them at risk.   “Cardiac screening has the potential to save the lives of student-athletes, and we are very excited to start the program this summer, through our partnership with AdventHealth,” said VCS Superintendent Dr. Scott Fritz. The ECG screenings are free of charge during the month of June. They are voluntary for the 2021-2022 school year but will be required for student-athletes beginning with the following year (2022-2023 school year). “Through our historic partnership, AdventHealth has pledged to be a leader for best practices in sports medicine, delivering protocols and providing medical support that ultimately improves the health and safety of our student-athletes here in Volusia County,” said Erik Nason, sports medicine manager for AdventHealth.  In addition to the new cardiac tests, VCS purchased 30 additional AEDs last fall to ensure quick access at games, practices, and other events in case of an emergency among students, coaches, faculty, or spectators. Funding for the AEDs was provided through the school district’s partnership with AdventHealth, the Official Healthcare Champion of Volusia County Schools.  Registration for AdventHealth’s free sports physicals for student-athletes for the 2021-2022 school year will open May 3. The link to register is not available at this time. The free event will be held June 3-5 in the Rolex Lounge of the Daytona International Speedway.  Families do have the option of going to their personal physician for the physical and cardiac screening. If you miss the free event, AdventHealth will offer multiple ECG screening events at VCS ten high schools for a small fee of about $20.