A total of 127 students received free sports physicals this summer through Melham Medical Center, helping local families save an estimated $6,350.
The sports physical events were held in Sargent, Dunning and Broken Bow as part of the medical center’s Community First initiative. Providers from the Melham Clinic traveled to each community to provide the exams at no cost to student athletes.
The initiative was made possible through donated time from hospital staff and school personnel.
By waiving the cost of the physicals, Melham Medical Center kept an estimated $6,350 in the pockets of local families. An additional $300 in donations was divided evenly among the participating schools.
The events are part of Melham Medical Center’s efforts to support local communities and make health care more accessible to families.
Parents are reminded that seventh grade physicals and required immunizations are separate from sports physicals and are required by the Nebraska State Board of Education.
Families can contact the Melham Clinic to schedule those appointments and receive required vaccinations during the same visit.
While sports physicals are required for athletic participation and provide an important health screening, Melham Medical Center says they are not a substitute for a comprehensive annual wellness exam.
Regular wellness visits focus on preventive care, recommended immunizations, and the early detection and management of health conditions.
The medical center says maintaining regular wellness visits can help young people stay healthy both on and off the field.
