Summertime feels a little bit different this year, and going back to school might feel different, too. While we may not know exactly what’s in store for the next school session, there’s no better time than the present to make sure your kids are ready by having their required physicals.
Get Your Child Ahead of the Class
If your child has missed his or her regular well visit or vaccination during the pandemic, now is the time to make sure they are up to date. Any child who is being enrolled in school for the first time in Florida must have proof that he or she has received a physical exam within the past year.
Bring Your Forms
Many schools ask parents to fill out and return health-related forms before school starts in the fall, most of which require a doctor’s signature. These forms may:
- Allow the staff to give your child medication during the school day
- Clear your child to play sports
- Confirm that your child’s vaccinations are up to date
Think About Other Prescriptions
It’s also important to bring along a list of the medications your child takes regularly. Just jot down the drug name, dosage and how often your child takes the medication. Be sure to let the doctor know if your child received other medical care in the last year.
Prepare for Immunizations
All school systems require certain immunizations in order for children to attend classes. Your child’s back-to-school physical is the ideal time to get up to date on those shots.
Request Prescription Refills
If your child needs the school office or school nurse to keep extra medication on hand, let your doctor know. These can include:
- An emergency inhaler for asthma symptoms
- An Epi-pen for severe allergic reactions
- Insulin for Type 1 diabetes
- Medication for attention deficit disorder
Nothing Is More Important Than You
All AdventHealth facilities are taking extra measures to keep you safe, including masks worn by visitors and staff, temperature checks, social distancing reminders, remote check-ins and frequent sanitizing.
Bio: Andrew Teffeau, DO, is a board-certified family medicine and sports medicine physician serving the Davenport community with whole-person care for ages 12 and up.
For same and next day appointments, call 407-537-5516 or visit CentralFloridaBacktoSchool.com.
