What Is a Pre-Participation Sports Physical?
Most schools and athletic organizations in Washington State require a pre-participation physical evaluation (PPE) before a student can compete in school-sponsored sports, extracurricular athletic activities, and many club sports.
The physical checks your student's overall health, cardiovascular fitness, musculoskeletal condition, and any existing injuries or conditions that could affect safe participation in sports. The goal isn't to keep athletes out — it's to make sure they can compete safely and that any health concerns are identified early.
ProCare performs the medical evaluation and documents findings. Clearance decisions remain with the school, league, or athletic organization.
What's Covered in a Sports Physical?
If our provider identifies any concerns during the exam, we'll discuss them with you and recommend appropriate follow-up — whether that's monitoring, further evaluation, or a referral to a specialist.
Exam Components
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Thorough Medical History Review
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Height & Weight Evaluation
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Blood Pressure & Pulse Check
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Vision Screening
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Heart, Lungs, & Abdomen Exam
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Joint, Bone, & Muscle Assessment
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Completion of Required Sports Forms
What to Bring
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Required school, sport, or camp physical form
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Completed medical history form
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Photo ID and insurance card, if needed
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Immunization records
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List of current medications
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Allergy information
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Glasses, contacts, braces, inhaler, or orthotics, if used
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Any specialist clearance notes for recent injuries, concussions, or medical conditions
For Coaches, Athletic Directors & Schools
Streamline your athletic program with ProCare’s specialized services for educational institutions and sports teams throughout Kennewick.
Team & Group Scheduling
- Standardized WIAA-compliant reporting for all athletes
- Coordinated on-site physical exams at your school or facility
- Priority group booking during peak pre-season windows
- Simplified administrative follow-up and document management
Common Sports Physical Questions
How long does a sports physical take?
Most sports physicals take 20–30 minutes. If there are findings that require additional discussion, it may take a little longer.
How far in advance should we schedule?
As soon as you know your student's sport season start date. Clinics fill up quickly in late summer before fall sports seasons begin. Schedule early to avoid the rush and give time for any follow-up if needed.
My student was injured earlier this year. Can they still get cleared?
Come in and be seen. Our provider will evaluate the current condition of the injury and document their findings. Any decisions about return-to-sport clearance will be discussed with you directly during the appointment.
Sources & References:
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WIAA Pre-Participation Physical Evaluation — Washington Interscholastic Activities Association
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Pre-Participation Physical Evaluation (PPE) Monograph — American Academy of Pediatrics
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Sports Physical Examination Standards — American Academy of Family Physicians
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Preparticipation Physical Evaluation — American College of Sports Medicine
Medically Reviewed By: Douglas E. Griffith, DNP, ARNP, FNP-C — Managing Partner & Provider
Last Reviewed: [DATE]