Centegra offers cardiac screening for teens

Submitted by Centegra Health System

Centegra Health System offers echocardiogram heart screenings designed for teens ages 13 to 18. The screening is an ultrasound of the heart that can help detect heart defects and abnormalities, even when no symptoms are present.

These screenings will take place at the Centegra Physician Care locations on the Centegra Wellness on the Move mobile health unit for $85 on these dates in January and February.

Ÿ 3:40 to 6:40 p.m. Monday, Jan. 9 at Centegra Physician Care-Crystal Lake, 360 Station Drive.

Ÿ 3:40 to 6:40 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 18 at Centegra Physician Care-Huntley, 10350 Haligus Road.

Ÿ 3:40 to 6:40 p.m. Monday, Jan. 23 at Centegra Physician Care-Spring Grove, 1906 Holian Drive.

Ÿ 3:40 to 6:40 p.m. Monday, Feb. 13 at Centegra Physician Care-Woodstock, 3707 Doty Road.

Ÿ 3:40 to 6:40 p.m. Monday, Feb. 27 at Centegra Physician Care-Crystal Lake, 360 Station Drive.

Many active teenagers do not show symptoms of heart abnormalities yet may be at risk for cardiac arrest or even death. Many cases of sudden cardiac death in teenagers, especially ages 13 to 18 years old, can be prevented with a proper heart screening.

ECHO heart screening requirements include completion of the pre-screening questionnaire, parental or guardian consent and presence of a parent or guardian at the screening. All necessary forms can be found at centegra.org/echo. The pre-screening questionnaire should be presented during the appointment. Comfortable clothing should be worn for the screening.

Dr. R. David Halstead, a pediatric cardiologist with Centegra Physician Care-McHenry, interprets the ECHO heart screenings. Studies will be read and results mailed to the parent within one week.

Centegra’s echocardiography labs are accredited by the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission and recognized for their commitment to high-quality patient care and diagnostic testing.