What does My-HeartCheck include?

My-HeartCheck includes blood pressure reading, a 12 lead ECG (EKG), and Echocardiogram (heart ultrasound). These tests help determine if your child has an electrical or structural abnormality with their heart that can be potentially life-threatening. The EKG measures the rhythm and electrical activity of the heart while the echocardiogram (echo) provides a visual image of the heart, allowing us to see if the size, structure, and heart valves are developing and functioning properly.

Who should have the tests?

Working with pediatric cardiologists allows us to test as young as 8 years old. With that said, our screening is intended for youth age 12 and above.  If you register your child that is between 8 and 12 years old, some heart conditions we screen for may not have developed at that early an age.

Does a parent or guardian need to be present?

The required forms must be completed and signed by a parent or guardian for your child to bring with them to the testing.  As long as those forms are completed and signed, your child is welcomed to come with another adult.  You can access the forms here.

How long does the screening typically take?

The testing itself takes approximately 30 minutes.  Pre-registration is required to reserve your child’s appointment.  You can register your child by clicking here.  

How often should the tests be repeated?

A new study, out from the University of London, identified a threefold higher death rate from heart conditions in athletes than previously estimated. The study found screenings are not “one-and-done” and should be completed on a regular basis. New guidelines indicate after the initial screening your child should receive follow up screenings at age 16, 18, 20, and 25 to rule out conditions that might manifest as they grow into adulthood.

What is the cost of the screening?

Regular cost for My-HeartCheck is $149.00. Check your specific school’s/organization’s event to see if discounted pricing is being offered.   Additional discounts are available for families that qualify (apply here).  The same tests done in a hospital or doctor’s office would typically cost more than $1,500!  If you have an HSA or FSA through your employer, you may be able to use those funds to pay for the screening. You will need a special receipt from My-HeartCheck to turn in to your employer so be sure to ask.

What is the cancellation policy?

A full refund for cancellations will be honored if written notice is received at least 5 days prior to your scheduled event. Requests must be sent to info@myheartcheck.org. A full refund, minus a $25.00 processing fee, will be honored for any cancellation requests received less than 5 days prior to your scheduled event. No refunds will be given for missed appointments or cancellations within 48 hours of your event.

Does insurance cover the cost of the testing?

For insurance to pay for any medical service, there must be an underlying condition or symptom justifying the required testing. Most kids do not have symptoms that would allow billing your insurance. If they do have symptoms you and your pediatrician should weigh the cost versus the benefit to determine if using your insurance is the best decision. These same tests, when done in a hospital or cardiology office, cost near $1,500 with potentially a large share of the cost applied to your deductible or out-of-pocket.

Who reviews the test results?

My-HeartCheck’s medical review team is comprised of pediatric cardiologists that review each test and produces formal written reports? These cardiologists specialize in congenital and genetic heart conditions and are board certified with a special interest in cardiac sports medicine.

How do I receive the results of the testing?

My-HeartCheck will email a detailed report to the email address used to register your child.  Results are emailed within 7 to 14 of the test date. The email is sent from reports@myheartcheck.org.

Does my child’s doctor receive the results?

We are happy to provide the same detailed report you receive to your child’s physician. All you need to do is include their name on the Health & Family History form in the space provided.