Premier League clubs must collect a minimum set of medical information for every contract player and every academy player on a scholarship agreement: an emergency dataset and full medical history, concussion baseline testing, cardiac screening built around a 12-lead ECG, annual blood and urine tests, and immunisation status.
What is tested, and when
Here is the required set of tests and records, and when each one is done.
| Test | When it is done |
|---|---|
| Medical history and examination | Annually, taking in family and personal history |
| Concussion baseline, by SCAT and a computerised neurocognitive test | At recruitment, then at intervals no greater than two years |
| Physical examination, cardiac history, 12-lead ECG and echocardiography | On signing a first professional contract |
| Physical examination, cardiac history and 12-lead ECG | On the scholarship programme, at 18 and again at 20 |
| Full blood count, liver and kidney function, urine dip-test | Annually |
| Haemoglobinopathies | A single test, where appropriate |
| Hepatitis B status, meningitis ACWY, travel immunisations | Checked and offered or required as part of immunisation status |
The emergency dataset and the medical history
The personal details kept on file form the minimum dataset needed in an emergency. That set includes the player's name and date of birth, next of kin or guardian, home address, the name and address of his GP, his faith or religion, and the languages he speaks and understands.
A medical history and examination are mandatory, and the history has to cover both family history and the player's own medical history. Allergies, asthma and other potentially life threatening conditions must be recorded, along with any medications and supplements the player is taking and any therapeutic use exemptions he currently holds.
These records are kept for player safety so medical emergencies can be managed properly. For tournaments and foreign trips, it is recommended that the responsible clinician can access the details in an emergency.
Concussion baseline testing and cardiac screening
Concussion history and baseline testing are both mandatory. The baseline element consists of a SCAT and a computerised neurocognitive baseline test at recruitment, with repeat testing at intervals no greater than two years.
Cardiac testing is also mandatory, but it is triggered at two different points. On signing a first professional contract, every player must have a physical examination, a cardiac history, a standard 12-lead ECG and echocardiography. On the scholarship programme, a physical examination, a cardiac history and a standard 12-lead ECG should be conducted at 18 and again at 20.
Any further cardiac investigation or follow-up on the scholarship programme should be performed as expert opinion advises. The cardiac examinations must comply with the complete standard operating procedures for cardiac screening issued jointly by The Football Association and the Professional Footballers' Association.
Annual blood and urine work, plus immunisations
Blood and urine testing is part of the mandatory annual set. The annual work covers a full blood count, liver and kidney function, and a urine dip-test for blood, sugar and protein.
There is also a one-off test where appropriate for haemoglobinopathies. It sits within the minimum required package, even though it is not an annual repeat item.
Immunisation history and status are mandatory as well. Hepatitis B carrier and immune status must be checked and immunisation offered to all, meningitis ACWY immunisation is required, and any other immunisations and medicines needed for foreign travel are included too.
FAQ
Do Premier League players get heart screening?
Yes. Cardiac testing is mandatory. One set must be performed on signing a first professional contract, and on the scholarship programme a further set should be conducted at 18 and again at 20.
What happens in a Premier League medical?
The minimum package is broader than a single appointment. It includes medical history and examination, concussion baseline testing, cardiac screening at the specified points, annual blood and urine work, and immunisation records and status.
How often are Premier League players tested?
The timing depends on the item being collected. Some checks are annual, concussion baseline testing starts at recruitment and repeats within a two-year limit, and some cardiac tests are linked to a first professional contract or to the scholarship ages set out above.
What vaccinations do Premier League players need?
Immunisation history and status must be kept up to date. Hepatitis B status is checked and immunisation is offered to all, meningitis ACWY is required, and foreign travel can add other required immunisations and medicines.
Are clubs required to do more than this?
No further universal minimum is mandated beyond this set. Clubs are recognised to collect more personal information, and they may justify and carry out more tests; clubs in UEFA competitions are subject to additional obligations under UEFA's rules.