MultiCare hosts free sports physical screenings for local student athletes

MultiCare Orthopedics Northwest offers free sports physical screenings for local student-athletes at Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences in Yakima. Scheduled over two weekends, the screenings include vital health checks like height, weight, blood pressure, and joint assessments. Lead Athletic Trainer Kent Wilcox emphasizes the importance of these screenings for early detection of health issues, which can prevent medical emergencies during sports. The initiative also addresses long wait times for medical appointments in the region, which can last up to six months. Yakima natives Wilcox and orthopedic surgeon Nick Kennedy view the event as a way to give back to their community, ensuring no child misses out on sports due to lack of access to healthcare.

They stress the need for accessible healthcare to empower young athletes. The screenings are set for July 26 and August 1 and 2, requiring parental accompaniment for athletes under 18. Sports physical forms will be provided at the event, and participants can reserve spots online.