Sudden cardiac arrest is a major cause of death among student-athletes and often strikes without warning. To address this, the Miami-Dade School Board and the State of Florida have made electrocardiograms (ECGs) mandatory for all student-athletes in Florida before they participate in sports.
Why Heart Screenings Are Necessary
High school sports hold significant value for students, teaching them skills such as teamwork, discipline, and how to handle both victories and losses. However, ensuring the safety of these young athletes is crucial. Sudden cardiac arrest is the leading cause of death among them, with more than 90% of victims not surviving. Moreover, many are unaware they are at risk.
The Miami-Dade County School Board and the State of Florida introduced the “Second Chance Act” to address these concerns, mandating ECGs for student-athletes.
How to Get Your Child Screened
The sports medicine community in Florida prioritizes the health and safety of athletes. Coaches are trained in CPR, and schools are equipped with automated external defibrillators (AEDs). Additionally, educational efforts focus on preventing heat-related illnesses.
An ECG is a straightforward, painless test that checks the electrical activity of the heart. Combined with a health questionnaire and physical exam, it provides a critical safety measure. Many healthcare providers, such as Baptist Health and Nicklaus Children’s, offer these screenings at no charge or for a minimal fee, as Florida law limits the cost to $50.
The primary objective is to ensure the safety of kids engaging in sports. Though ECGs, like other screening tests, are not flawless and can sometimes necessitate follow-up with a specialist, they offer a crucial layer of safety.
While cases that require further investigation are uncommon, early screening is recommended to allow time for any additional tests. This simple procedure ensures every student the protection they deserve.
Dr. Michael Swartzon, a sports medicine physician with Baptist Health South Florida, collaborates with teams such as 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.
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