What to Expect at Your Child's School Physical

Your children may be excited about summer vacation, but don’t let the next school year sneak up on you. Scheduling your child’s school or sports physical early ensures that you can find a time that works best for everyone, and you won’t have to scramble as your child’s school’s deadline quickly approaches.

Visiting a family provider regularly and building a history with them improves your child’s care and creates what the healthcare industry calls a “medical home.” This means your child receives coordinated, personalized, high-quality care that emphasizes prevention and tracks wellness.

Back-to-school appointments are a great time to discuss your child’s health and development. You can have a more in-depth conversation with the provider because you aren’t there for an illness or injury. Feel free to ask any questions you may have – from growth concerns to possible learning disabilities and everything in between.

Annual physicals are especially important from ages two through five. Most schools require immunization records as part of the registration process, so being up-to-date on vaccinations is a must.

Physicals are also very important during adolescence. The provider can talk to your child about puberty and development as well as social issues like sex, drugs and alcohol. At a time when self-esteem and mental health are critical, your provider can also get a sense of how your child is feeling and how you might be able to help.

Don’t let summer activities and family vacations push this important appointment off of your calendar – schedule your children’s school physicals today. To schedule an appointment, call your MercyCare clinic. To find a new provider, call the MercyCare Find a Doc line at (319) 369-4444.