MD SB593

Physical examinations for students participating in interscholastic sports must include cardiovascular prescreening beginning in the 2026-2027 school year, with screenings conducted no earlier than 90 days before the first day of school.

Cardiovascular prescreening consists of a targeted personal and family history plus a physical examination based on nationally recognized, evidence-based guidelines for pediatric cardiovascular care.

Health care providers who identify positive findings during prescreening should determine whether referral to a cardiologist for further evaluation is necessary.

Public schools must annually report to county boards or health departments the number of students who received sports physicals, cardiovascular prescreenings, and cardiologist referrals; the Maryland Department of Health must publish an aggregated report by January 31 each year.

Nonpublic schools with State Board certificates of approval must develop policies and programs to provide sudden cardiac arrest information to students, parents, and coaches participating in athletic programs.