Free Heart Screenings for Youth Ages 12-18

Since 2012, our Play Smart program has provided over 40,000 free youth heart screenings where we have diagnosed hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, long QT syndrome, Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome and other conditions that can be treated or monitored.

  • Chances are your child’s heart is healthy, but a small percentage of young people have hidden heart abnormalities that put their lives at risk – especially during physical exertion. Some of these problems cannot be diagnosed by routine well-child exams or sports physicals. Play Smart is one resource to help with a quick, painless cardiac test called an electrocardiogram (ECG); and if needed an echocardiogram. 

    Providence cardiologists review each screening and share results through a safe and secure process. This screening is open to everyone aged 12-18. It is not required to be a patient of Providence or have Providence insurance to participate. We typically recommend at least one screening during the teenage years.

    If the person is experiencing symptoms or needs a return to play clearance for school or an athletic club, please contact your primary care provider, as a more detailed evaluation may be appropriate.

  • Our screenings are held at the following locations, by appointment only, and only on the scheduled event dates (see Scheduling an Appointment below).

    • Providence St. Vincent Medical Center (PSVMC)

    • Providence Portland Medical Center (PPMC)

    • Providence Health Center - Reed’s Crossing (RC)

    • Providence Newberg Medical Center (PNMC)

    Future locations may be announced.

EVENTS OPEN FOR SCHEDULING:

  • Sat., May 3, 10:00a-1:00p (PNMC)

Future dates not yet open for scheduling:

  • Sat., Aug. 16, 9:30a-12:30p (PSVMC)

  • Sat., Sep 13, 10:00a-1:00p (PPMC)

  • Sat., Nov. 8, 9:30a-12:30p (RC)

SCHEDULING AN APPOINTMENT:

Appointment window opens 60 days prior to a scheduled event. Click the button below to access our online scheduling system.

If an appointment time is not available for the date you wish to schedule, you can contact us to be added to the waitlist.

For questions, please contact us via email.

If the individual is experiencing symptoms or needs a return to play clearance for school or an athletic club, please contact your primary care provider, as a more detailed evaluation may be appropriate.

Curious about the heart screening experience? We hope these photos and details help with your comfort and better understanding of the process.

Play Smart is powered by Basecamp Prevention + Wellness, part of Providence Heart Institute. Our free youth heart screenings are made possible by generous donations through the Providence St. Vincent Medical Foundation.