The Florida Department of Health in Okeechobee County is now scheduling sports physicals and EKG/ECG heart screenings for incoming and current high school student-athletes. These services support the new requirements outlined in Florida Senate Bill 1070 (“Second Chance Act”), effective July 1, 2025, for participation in the 2026–27 school year.
An EKG/ECG is a quick and painless test that measures the electrical activity of the heart. It can detect hidden heart conditions, including arrhythmias and cardiomyopathy, that may not appear during a standard sports physical.
Early screening helps identify potential risks and gives student-athletes the safest start to the season. Incoming 9th graders and all high-school–aged athletes are eligible.
As part of our sports physical program, we go beyond the basics to support your child’s heart health. Through our unique partnership with Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, every EKG/ECG screening is carefully reviewed by pediatric cardiac experts. This added layer of specialized evaluation helps ensure accurate results and early detection of potential heart conditions, giving families greater peace of mind and helping young athletes stay safe doing what they love.
Our goal is to help families prepare early, ensure student safety, and make the screening process as simple and accessible as possible.
DOH-Okeechobee will start taking appointments on June 16. Call 863‑462‑5800 to schedule. Please bring your ID and insurance card, as well as any relevant medical information that may exempt your student from getting an EKG/ECG.
Locations
DOH-Okeechobee
1728 NW 9th Ave.
Okeechobee, FL 34972
Fees
- $110 Physical
- $30 EKG