Sports physicals

Download physical form (PDF)*

*MinuteClinic® uses a standardized physical form created by leaders in pediatric and sports medicine.

Other information to collect before your visit:

• Primary care's name and contact information
• Medical history, including allergies and immunizations
• For patients with a history of a heart ailment or cardiac event, a statement from your primary care provider or treating physician. This statement must confirm that the provider has evaluated the condition and that it does not prevent participation.

Specific requirements can vary according to the particular sport's organizers or governing body. Your sports physical examination may include:

• Check of blood pressure, heart rate and rhythm
• Review of medications your child takes, including prescriptions, over-the-counter medications and any supplements
• Evaluation of flexibility, joints, posture and strength
• General physical exam to check the ears, nose, throat, heart, lungs and abdomen
• Height and weight measurement
• Review of the athlete and the family's medical history
• Vision check

A MinuteClinic provider can help give clearance based on guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics. A MinuteClinic provider will review the athlete's COVID-19 status and ask questions about the infection. They will also conduct a physical exam.

They can provide a letter stating that the athlete can return to their activity, or they can fill out a form specific to your school or program, if clinically indicated. Please note that your school or program may have additional requirements for post-COVID-19 clearance. If you were not initially tested for COVID-19 at CVS® or MinuteClinic, you will need to bring a copy of your test results.

A pre‑participation physical examination (PPE), often called a sports physical, helps ensure an athlete is healthy and physically prepared for their sport. While a PPE cannot prevent illness or injury throughout the season, it plays an important role in promoting safer participation by identifying health concerns that may require attention before activity begins.

• Evaluates general health and identifies potential health concerns: Reviewing your medical history and immunization record and performing a routine physical exam can help you avoid issues that may block participation. Any immunization gaps can be addressed.
• Offers training tips and injury-prevention guidance: If you are going to attend a sports camp, your MinuteClinic® provider may share some helpful training advice and ideas for avoiding injuries during the event.
• Assesses personal and family medical history: The medical history review focuses on the athlete’s personal health conditions, while the family history review looks at conditions that run in the family, such as diabetes. Conditions like asthma are important to note because they may affect eligibility, even if you haven’t had symptoms recently. For example, carrying an inhaler can be a helpful precaution. Your MinuteClinic provider can review these details and provide helpful guidance and patient education during the physical.
• Evaluates pre-existing and current conditions such as allergies and injuries: Injuries in sports can range from minor ankle sprains and repetitive motion strains to more severe conditions like concussion and heat stroke. This screen helps to identify those potential health issues, so they're not exacerbated and cause undue pain, injury or re-injury.