Frequently Asked Questions

Nurses and PA's are conducting the screenings and they will place the electrode stickers on the chest to detect electrical signals of the heart. It is an easy and painless test that takes 5-10 minutes. There are no needles, bloodwork, radiation exposure, or sedation necessary. A cardiologist reads the screenings through computer software. 

-It can detect a heart abnormality that you may not be aware of. 

-If you have a family history of heart disease. 

-If you compete in high impact sports which increase your heart rate for a long period of time.

-If you experience dizziness, shortness of breath, fainting, weakness, or chest pain while participating in athletic activity. 

The Heart and Sole Foundation offers FREE screenings with no charge or fee. 

Results will be mailed to your home address.

Less than 3% of screenings come up as inconclusive or recommend further testing. 97% of those screening have a normal EKG and are considered at low risk for a cardiac issue. 

Additional testing will be recommended such as an Echocardiogram to get a picture of the heart to see its structure and operation. It should be seen as a cautionary yellow light and the EKG will provide documentation for what the problem might be. You can still participate in sports and activities but you'll need to visit a Cardiologist within 3 months for follow up. 

No, but as of July 1, 2022, New York schools enacted The Dominic Murray Sudden Cardiac Arrest Prevention Act which ensures that schools, students, and parents are provided with critical, lifesaving information on sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) signs and symptoms, and risks to ensure students at risk are evaluated prior to participation in athletics, and that SCA is immediately recognized and treated to prevent death. The annual physical exam asks family history questions, and requires a doctor to listen to the student’s heart with a stethoscope. Studies have shown that this is just 1% effective in catching heart issues. An EKG can detect up to 95% of the conditions that cause SCA.

Boys and girls will be separated. Girls will be screened by female nurses. You will be in a private area with the nurse when receiving the screening. 

Wear loose clothing like sweatpants or shorts for  2 of the electrodes to go on your legs.  Girls should wear a sports bra. 

No, getting one screening will provide you with a baseline EKG that will last a few years.