Mass General Brigham Sports Medicine Provide Free Pre-Participation Physical Exams for Boston Public School Athletes

Over 300 student-athletes received free evaluations ahead of the Fall sports season.

Boston, MA — As part of an annual event, Mass General Brigham Sports Medicine provided over 300 Boston Public School athletes free pre-participation physical exam (PPE) ahead of the upcoming Fall sports season. The event took place at Madison Park High School in Roxbury on Saturday May 17th. Mass General Brigham’s athletic trainers and clinical connections provide comprehensive care across all sports seasons for Boston Public Schools, which includes participation from over 2,000 student-athletes.

“Given the attendance, success and growth each year we are excited to collaborate with Mass General Brigham again to provide the PPE event for our student athletes. This event not only ensures that they meet the athletic physical requirement, it also allows teams to have an appropriate start to their seasons with minimal disruptions. With the support of our Athletic Trainers, we have seen a healthy shift in culture where student-athletes not only understand the importance of the PPE but they are taking the responsibility to participate in this event and/or make an appointment with their primary care for an annual physical,” said Avery Esdaile, Athletic Director, Boston Public Schools.

Getting the required pre-participation physical examination is often a major hurdle for those in under-served communities, where it can be challenging to access care, representing a barrier and health risk to participating in sports. The team of over 50 volunteer physicians, athletic trainers, physical therapists, medical assistants, and administrators from Mass General Brigham performed the exams free of charge to families, clearing the student-athletes to play and ensuring they receive the correct care plan when needed.

The pre-participation physical exam included vision and blood pressure screenings, and height/weight/body mass index testing. In addition, the Mass General Brigham Clinical Research Dietitian from Translational and Clinical Research team conducted Food Insecurity Experience Survey and the PHQ-9 mental health survey modified for teens.

“Each year the Mass General Brigham Sports Medicine and Athletic Training Teams look forward to the Annual BPS Pre-Participation Physical Exam Event and providing free and vital resources and services to the student-athletes and their families, by being able to participate and enjoy their sport safely. This past year the team won a Pillars of Excellence Award which highlights our involvement with the Boston community and Boston Public Schools to put our mission into action.” said Jessica Meiley, ATC, MPH, Supervisor, Boston Public Schools Athletic Training Services at Mass General Brigham Sports Medicine.