When the young athletes at Flagler County Schools hit the court, field or track, they can compete with the confidence that comes from a full sports physical.
Each year,AdventHealth Palm Coastprovides free checkups to hundreds of student athletes to help them prepare for a year of athletic and academic challenges.
Wally De Aquino, chief operating officer of AdventHealth Palm Coast, formerly Florida Hospital Flagler, says the goal of AdventHealth’s partnership with Flagler County Schools is to help students kick off the year on the right foot.
“AdventHealth is a community partner and we don’t want to just take care of our community when they’re sick,” De Aquino says. “We also want to promote health, and by doing this we help everyone at the end to feel whole.”
(For five tips on how to feel whole in 2019, check outour post.)
Expert Volunteers Provide Exams
Each year, AdventHealth Palm Coast recruits and mobilizes dozens of volunteer nurses, physical therapists and doctors, like Glenn Zimmet, DO, to give students a full examination.
“We have a group of physical therapists to check their musculoskeletal system,” Dr. Zimmet says, “and a physician and nurse will examine their heart, lungs and more to make sure they’re ready to go out and play their sport.”
AdventHealth provides medical care to students in other districts, too. The health system alsopartners with Volusia County Schoolsto provide health care services at 36 schools, including coordinated care for student athletes.
Saving Local Families Time and Money
These sports physicals ensure that each student will be ready to play, regardless of their family’s financial situation. Steve DeAugustino, athletic director at Flagler Palm Coast High School, said this easily accessible service provides an important financial benefit for hundreds of families.
“The community seems to appreciate the service from the hospital,” he says at a recent event, as nearby nurses record students’ height and check their eyesight. “It’s really a positive experience for parents, coaches and students.”
AdventHealth recognizes the value of sports in helping young people be active in body, mind and spirit. Providing free sports physicals is another way we help our community feel whole.
To learn more about what AdventHealth Palm Coast can do for you and your family,visit our websiteor call us at
Call386-586-2000.
