What does My HeartCheck include?

My HeartCheck includes a blood pressure reading, a 12-lead ECG (EKG), and an echocardiogram (heart ultrasound). These tests help determine whether your child may have an electrical or structural heart abnormality that could 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 whether the heart’s size, structure, and valves are developing and functioning properly.

Who should have the tests?

By working with pediatric cardiologists, we are able to test children as young as 8 years old. That said, our screening is intended primarily for youth ages 12 and older. If you register a child between the ages of 8 and 12, some heart conditions we screen for may not yet have developed.

Does a parent or guardian need to be present?

The required forms must be completed and signed by a parent or guardian and brought to the screening. As long as those forms are completed and signed, your child may attend with another adult. You can access the forms here.

How long does the screening typically take?

The screening itself typically 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?

Research has shown that heart screenings are not “one-and-done” and should be repeated periodically. After an initial screening, follow-up screenings are recommended at ages 16, 18, 20, and 25 to help identify conditions that may develop as a child grows into adulthood.

What is the cost of the screening?

The regular cost of a My HeartCheck screening is $179.00. Check your specific school or organization’s event to see whether discounted pricing is being offered. Additional discounts are available for families who qualify; you can apply here. These same tests, when performed in a hospital or cardiology office, 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 may need a special receipt from My HeartCheck to submit to your employer, so please be sure to ask. You can also learn more about how we work with our nonprofit partners here.

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 appointment. Requests must be sent to info@myheartcheck.org.

A full refund, minus a $25.00 processing fee, will be honored for cancellation requests received less than 5 days prior to your scheduled appointment.

Within 48 hours of your appointment date, we are unable to honor appointment changes or cancellations. No refunds will be provided for missed appointments.

Does insurance cover the cost of the testing?

For insurance to cover a medical service, there must typically be an underlying condition, symptom, or medical reason that justifies the testing. Most children do not have symptoms that would support billing insurance for these screenings. If your child does have symptoms or a known concern, you and your pediatrician should weigh the potential benefits and costs to determine whether using insurance is the best option.

These same tests, when performed in a hospital or cardiology office, can cost close to $1,500, with a significant portion potentially applied to your deductible or out-of-pocket responsibility.

Who reviews the test results?

My HeartCheck’s medical review team is made up of pediatric cardiologists who review each test and produce formal written reports. These cardiologists specialize in congenital and genetic heart conditions, are board-certified, and have 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 typically emailed within 7 to 14 days 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 your child’s doctor’s name on the Health & Family History form in the space provided.