Katy ISD Now Offers ECG Screening to Students Athletes, Staff

KATY MAGAZINE NEWS

December 7, 2023

By Natalie Cook Clark

Katy ISD students now have the option of on-site electrocardiogram (ECG) screening when completing their UIL physicals. All Katy ISD health plan participants and their dependents also qualify for the screening that can aide in the early detection of cardiac issues.

Photo credit: Katy ISD

Ten electrocardiogram (ECG) devices have arrived at Katy ISD and will be used for screenings during University Interscholastic League (UIL) physicals. The screening will be available at an additional cost and will also be available to all Katy ISD health plan participants and their dependents.

"Leveraging cutting-edge technology, Katy ISD is taking a proactive approach to student and staff well-being with the introduction of ECG devices during UIL physicals,” says Lance Nauman, Director of Risk Management. “This initiative underscores our commitment to harness state-of-the-art tools for health monitoring, providing valuable insights into cardiac health for early detection.”

Starting in February 2024, students participating in UIL physicals will have the option to undergo on-site ECG screenings for an additional $20 fee. This service is separate from the $30 cost associated with the standard physical examination. The optional ECG screenings are designed to provide valuable insights into the cardiac health of students, aiding in the early detection of potential issues.

In 2019 the Texas state legislature passed Texas House Bill 76, also known as Cody’s Law, that gives parents in every school district the right to choose heart screening for their child.

Members of the Stephens family attended the arrival of the ECG machines event yesterday at Legacy Stadium. The Cody Stephens Go Big or Go Home Memorial Foundation was founded in memory of Cody Stephens, who died from an undetected heart condition just weeks before graduation from Crosby High School.

"We are excited to introduce this new layer of health screening for our student-athletes," says Lance Carter, Executive Director of Athletics. "The addition of on-site ECG screenings aligns with our ongoing commitment to prioritize the health and safety of our student-athletes. Early detection of cardiac irregularities can be crucial in preventing potential health risks, and we believe this initiative will contribute to the overall well-being of our students."

The ECG screenings will be conducted on-site by Memorial Hermann doctors who will be assisted by Katy ISD nurses, providing a convenient and accessible opportunity for students and staff to receive this valuable health assessment. Parents and guardians are encouraged to accompany their child during UIL physicals and consider this optional service to gain a more comprehensive understanding of their child's cardiac health.

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