Need a sports physical in San Leandro? CityHealth offers same-day sports physicals and school physicals for kids, teens, and adults — no appointment required. Walk in any day of the week. Most insurance accepted. Learn more about Full Body Checkup Near Me at CityHealth.
What Is a Sports Physical?
A sports physical — formally called a Pre-Participation Physical Evaluation (PPE) — is a medical exam that most schools, athletic programs, and youth leagues require, athletic programs, and youth sports leagues before a student can participate in organized athletics. It assesses whether a child or teen is physically fit and safe to play.
Sports physicals are also called:
- Athletic physical
- Pre-participation physical exam (PPE)
- School sports physical
- Annual physical for sports
What Does a Sports Physical at CityHealth Include?
Our sports physicals follow the standard PPE guidelines and typically include:
- Medical history review — past injuries, surgeries, heart conditions, family history of heart disease
- Blood pressure and heart rate
- Height and weight / BMI
- Vision screening
- Heart and lung exam — listening with a stethoscope for abnormal sounds
- Abdomen exam
- Musculoskeletal assessment — flexibility, strength, range of motion for joints commonly injured in sports
- Neurological check — especially if there’s a history of concussion
- Skin check
The exam takes approximately 20–30 minutes. You’ll receive a completed sports physical form at the end, ready to submit to your child’s school or league.
How Much Does a Sports Physical Cost in Oakland?
At CityHealth, sports physicals are billed as an office visit:
- With insurance: Typically your standard copay ($20–$50 depending on your plan). Check our insurance and pricing page for accepted plans.
- Medi-Cal: Sports physicals are covered under most Medi-Cal plans (California Children’s Services and standard Medi-Cal).
- Without insurance: Competitive self-pay pricing — ask when you check in.
Sports physicals at CityHealth are generally less expensive than at a traditional doctor’s office, and far faster.
When Should I Schedule a Sports Physical?
Most schools require sports physicals to be completed within 12 months of the start of the sports season. Fall sports athletes (soccer, football, cross country) should aim for July or August. Spring sport participants can schedule in December through February. Year-round athletes find it easiest to get an annual physical every 12 months.
Pro tip: Schedule early — August is the busiest month for sports physicals as fall sports season approaches. The wait is shorter in June or July.
Can Urgent Care Do Sports Physicals?
Yes. Urgent care is one of the most convenient places to get a sports physical because:
- No appointment required (walk in any day)
- Same-day availability, including weekends
- Extended hours — no need to take time off work or school for a weekday appointment
- Typically faster than waiting for a primary care appointment
- State-certified physicians and nurse practitioners who can complete and sign school physical forms
What to Bring to Your Sports Physical
- Your school or league’s sports physical form (download it from your school’s website if possible — or we can provide our standard form)
- Insurance card
- Photo ID (parent or guardian for minor patients)
- List of any current medications
- Previous medical records if relevant (prior surgeries, cardiac evaluations, etc.)
What Happens If My Child Fails a Sports Physical?
If a provider identifies a potential concern during the exam — such as a heart murmur, elevated blood pressure, musculoskeletal issue, or history of concussion — they may recommend follow-up evaluation before clearing your child for sports. This happens in a small percentage of exams.
A “deferred” or “not cleared” result isn’t necessarily the end of sports participation. It typically means one of the following:
- Further evaluation is needed (e.g., EKG for suspected heart murmur)
- A specific condition needs management before participation (e.g., uncontrolled asthma)
- A previous injury needs clearance from a specialist
Your CityHealth provider will explain exactly what’s needed and help coordinate next steps.
CityHealth Sports Physicals in San Leandro
Skip the weeks-long wait for a pediatrician appointment. Walk into CityHealth Urgent Care for a same-day sports physical at either of our Bay Area locations. We’re open 7 days a week, including evenings and weekends.
Book your appointment online to get seen faster, or just walk in. Visit our locations page for hours and directions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a sports physical count as a regular physical (annual wellness exam)?
Not typically. A sports physical has a narrower focus than an annual wellness exam. It doesn’t include the full preventive health components like cholesterol screening, immunization review, or comprehensive lab work. If you want a complete annual physical, ask about our wellness exam options when you check in.
Can an adult get a sports physical at CityHealth?
Yes. Adults joining a recreational sports league, fitness program, or requiring a physical for employer health screening can receive the appropriate exam at CityHealth. Just bring whatever form needs to be completed.
Do you accept Medi-Cal for sports physicals?
Yes. CityHealth accepts Medi-Cal for sports physicals. Medi-Cal typically covers the exam as a standard office visit.
How long is a sports physical valid?
Most schools and sports programs require a physical completed within the past 12 months. Some programs accept physicals completed any time during the academic year. Check your school’s specific requirements.
