Planning for a School Physical

A school physical is more than just a routine doctor’s appointment. It is a terrific way to get your child’s school year off to a healthy start.

School physical exams allow your family doctor to evaluate your child’s growth and development, screen for any common childhood conditions, and make sure their immunizations are current. Here is everything you need to know to plan for your child’s next school physical.

When Does Your Child Need a Physical?

Your family doctor could recommend more frequent exams based on your child’s unique health history. Here are some general requirements for school-age children:

  1. If this is your child’s first year at school.
  2. If your child has not had a physical in the past 12 months.
  3. If your child is due for a vaccine and is current on immunizations.
  4. If your child is transferring.
  5. If your child will be playing a school sport.

Schedule Early

Call your family doctor’s office for an appointment after summer vacation begins and before school starts. There is always a chance the doctor might want to order a follow-up test. If your child’s physical happens late in the summer, you might not have time to schedule these tests before school starts.

Preparing Questions for the Doctor

Think about any questions you have about your child’s health. Maybe sleep habits, screen time, or fitness level. Or allergies. Be sure to write down your questions.

When you arrive for the child’s appointment, let a nurse or assistant know about your questions.

Bring Your Forms

Many schools ask parents to fill out health-related forms before school starts, which may require a doctor’s signature. These forms may:

  1. Allow the staff to give your child medication during the school day.
  2. Confirm that your child’s vaccinations are up to date.
  3. Clear your child to play sports.
  4. Be sure to bring those school health forms with you to your child’s physical.

Understand Common Screening Tests

Health screenings are an essential part of any school physical. Depending on your child’s age and health history, these tests might include:

  1. A Vision check.
  2. Hearing test.
  3. Heart and blood pressure tests.
  4. A screening for spine problems.
  5. A urine test to detect signs of infection.
  6. Blood work to look for signs of high cholesterol.
  7. Tests to check developmental milestones.
  8. Electrocardiogram, ECG, for sports.

If any of these screenings suggest a problem, your doctor will suggest the next steps.

Think About Other Prescriptions

It is also important to bring a list of the medications that your child takes. Write down the drug name, dosage, and frequency.

Let the doctor know if your child received other medical care, such as physical therapy, speech therapy, or occupational therapy.

If your child needs the school nurse to keep extra medication, let your doctor know. These can include:

  1. An emergency inhaler.
  2. An EpiPen for allergic reactions.
  3. Insulin for Type 1 diabetes.
  4. Medication for a chronic condition.

The school must have medications on hand in case of an emergency.

Prep for Immunizations

Immunizations keep our communities safe. All public-school systems require certain immunizations for children to attend classes. Your child’s school physical exam is the ideal time to get up to date on those shots. If your child missed an immunization at a younger age, the doctor may give a catch-up immunization.

Consider mentioning any upcoming immunizations to your child to help them mentally prepare.

Make Sure Your Children Are Healthy

You will leave the doctor’s office with an after-visit summary and completed forms. You will have peace of mind knowing you are doing what is right to start your child’s next school year in a healthy way.

Related Article: What Are School Physicals?