Preparticipation physical evaluations for high school athletes: time for a new game plan.

For several decades, physicians have conducted preparticipation physical evaluations (PPEs) hoping to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with high school sports. We argue in this Brief Commentary that the PPE as currently practiced is ineffective and illogical. We propose a research agenda that would provide data to more effectively promote adolescent health both on and off the playing field.