August is the first sign that summer is coming to an end, which means the first day of school is right around the corner! It also means that it's time for your child to get a new physical check-up at their doctor's office. Your child's annual physical exam is very important to their health, and making sure your child's yearly checkup is up-to-date is an important part of preparing your child to go back to school.
Why Should You Get a Physical?
It's necessary for your child to get an annual physical examination because it's important to know what has changed in the past year. Although a year may not seem like a long amount of time, there are many changes that can happen within a yearlong span, especially for children. Annual physicals can help monitor the growth, development, and health status of a child and are key in the prevention of potential future problems.
Why do Schools Require Physicals?
Annual health requirements can vary depending on the school and state. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend a yearly exam to ensure that each child is up-to-date with their vaccines to prevent the spread of diseases. Schools not only need to ensure the safety and health of your child, but the health of the other children as well.
Sports-specific Physical Exams
Sport-specific exams are not the same as an annual physical exam. Annual physical exams focus on the overall health of your child, while sports-specific exams focus on determining whether or not it's safe for your child to participate in a sport. This includes assessing any past injuries, such as concussions or sprains.
How Can I Prepare for My Child's Annual Physical?
There are actually several ways you can be prepared for your child's annual physical exam. Make sure you bring the following information with you when you visit the doctor's office:
- Changes in family medical history
- Changes in the child's health since their last visit
- List of any over-the-counter medications your child is taking
- Your family insurance card
Through annual physicals, you are not only protecting your child's well-being, but also the health of those around you. Help your kids start off the new school year with good health and a better understanding about their own health!
For more information:
https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/gradeschool/school/Pages/Back-to-School-Back-to-the-Doctor.aspx
https://www.cdc.gov/family/checkup/index.htm
https://www.unitypoint.org/livewell/article.aspx?id=1d761ad3-da73-47e7-b400-ffb2e0bb48c7