Johns Hopkins and Baltimore City Schools Team Up to Provide Physicals for Student Athletes
Johns Hopkins and Baltimore City Schools partnered in August to provide pre-participation sports physicals for 212 Baltimore City middle and high school students.
Volunteers from across Johns Hopkins after the first event held on Aug. 13.
Hundreds of middle and high school student-athletes across Baltimore City recently received free physical exams necessary to participate in school sports thanks to a dedicated group of volunteers at The Johns Hopkins Hospital. The free clinics aimed to eliminate logistical barriers for local student-athletes. As a result, 212 students successfully completed their required physicals for the upcoming school year during the events held on Aug. 13 and 22.
The initiative was led by Dr. John Wilckens, Associate Professor of Orthopedic Surgery, alongside Dr. Mohammed Emam and Dr. Alexis Coslick, both Assistant Professors of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, in partnership with Baltimore City Public Schools.
We wanted to ensure that athletes have access to basic healthcare. Many students face challenges such as lack of insurance or understanding when to seek medical care – whether it’s for injury prevention or existing medical conditions. We felt it was important to be available and present for these students.
Dr. Mohammed Emam
Held at the Watkins Outpatient Center, the events were staffed by dozens of Johns Hopkins Medicine staff and faculty volunteers from various departments, including PM&R, orthopedics, pediatrics, medicine, and the Advanced Practice Advisory Committee Diversity & Outreach Subcommittee. Physicians, nurse practitioners, residents, fellows, and medical assistants all came together to serve the community, with additional support from security and JHOC administration.
Other key organizers included Carey Roesler, PA-C, and Sophia Corrigan, PA-C, from Orthopedic Surgery, with support from Dr. Eva Seligman, Dr. Cecilia Andrea Cordova Vallejos and the Sports Physical Therapy division from Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.
During the August events, students moved through a series of stations, where their vitals were taken and they received physical exams. They also had the opportunity to discuss their health with physicians and address any concerns.
For many kids, getting a physical can be too costly or time-consuming. By offering this service, we’re removing one more hurdle, allowing more students to participate in athletics. Sports can be a vital part of their lives, helping them stay in school, form friendships, and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Dr. Alexis Coslick
Overall, everyone involved agreed that this partnership underscores the commitment of The Johns Hopkins Hospital and Baltimore City Public Schools to the health and well-being of student-athletes, ensuring they have the support needed to thrive both on and off the field.
For Clinicians Clinical Connection
Clinicians, discover the latest in research and clinical innovation from Johns Hopkins experts. Access educational videos, articles, CME courses and other resources from our world-renowned institution.