School physicals: What you need to know

Summer is in full swing and the new school year is quickly approaching, so if your child has not had his or her Back to School Physical Exam, it is very important to schedule one soon!  Not only is it a school requirement for kindergarteners and new students, but it is also wise for a child to see a physician every year in order to monitor their health and development.  In addition to measuring height, weight, heart rate, and blood pressure, a proper Back to School Physical will include tests of vision, hearing, and hemoglobin (to assess for anemia), along with a urinalysis to screen for kidney disease or potential diabetes.  Required vaccinations that are essential in keeping children safe from preventable diseases can also be administered during a Back to School Physical.  Also, if you have been diligent by bringing in your child  for yearly check-ups after their birthday, then a Back to School Physical isn’t necessary unless their birthday is between now and the start of the school year.

Many parents are under the impression that their son’s or daughter’s recent sports physical exam will substitute for a Back to School Physical, but they are incorrect.  A sports physical is designed to screen for potential athletic health problems associated with various sporting events, but they alone tend not to address a child’s overall health.  One great aspect of a Back to School Physical is that, due to the depth of the exam, it can take the place of a required sports physical, so make sure to schedule your little slugger’s Back to School Physical now!

At Pediatric Associates and Pediatric Partners, children always come first, and we consider Back to School Physicals to be a crucial part of your child’s total well being.  Call Pediatric Partners today at (863) 293-2144 or visit our brand new website at www.pediatric-partners.com to schedule an appointment today!

Pediatric Health is sponsored by Pediatrics Associates of Lakeland and Pediatric Partners of Winter Haven.

CREDITS

story by DOROTHY RAY, MD
Pediatric Associates of Lakeland
Pediatric Partners of Winter Haven

BIO: Dorothy Ray, MD, has been practicing pediatrics in Lakeland for 24 years.  Dr. Ray is a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics and is Board-Certified by the American Board of Pediatrics.

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