Fall Sports Pre-Participation Exams

Filling a Critical Gap: UOI’s Exam Clinic for Student-Athletes Helps Ease Strain on Primary Care Amid Statewide Shortage

At a time when access to primary care providers is increasingly limited in Rhode Island, nearly 160 student-athletes are now cleared to participate in fall sports thanks to University Orthopedics’ annual Free Fall Sports Pre-Participation Exams.

Held on Saturday, August 2, at the practice’s Kettle Point location, the event provided 158 student-athletes with comprehensive physical exams at no cost. These physicals, often required for school athletics and recreational programs, can be difficult to obtain due to a shortage of primary care appointments—especially during the busy back-to-school season.

“By offering free sports pre‑participation exams to 158 student‑athletes, we not only ensure safe returns to play but also help ease the demand on primary care clinics, urgent care centers, and emergency departments during a time when providers are overwhelmed with school physicals and new patient enrollments,” said Dr. Stephen Marcaccio, Orthopedic Sports Medicine Surgeon and one of the XX University Orthopedics team members who volunteered during the event.

This long-running program has helped thousands of athletes over more than 25 years, providing critical support not just to families, but to the broader healthcare system.

“An event of this size is only possible thanks to the teamwork and dedication of our physicians, advanced practice providers, and skilled therapists,” said Terry Moreno Toste, Physical Therapist and program coordinator. “Being a student-athlete takes incredible commitment—from both the athletes and their families—and it’s our mission to help them start their seasons strong, while easing the pressure of an already hectic time of year.”

As the official orthopedic provider of both the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) and the Eastern Connecticut Conference (ECC), University Orthopedics understands the diverse and specialized needs of student-athletes. In addition to its more than 65 board-certified, fellowship-trained physicians, the practice features a highly trained team of physical therapists specializing in:

• Orthopedics and sports medicine
• Concussion therapy
• Dance rehabilitation
• Injury prevention and strength training
• Spine and scoliosis treatment (Schroth Method)
• Athletic training for both high school and collegiate athletes