Before the school buses return to their routes, it is time to start thinking about your child’s back-to-school physical. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a yearly physical for all school-aged children. Many summer camps, schools and sports require that a physical card be updated every two years. Here are some things you can expect at the exam:
- Medical history. An important part of every check up is the medical history. Nutrition, diet and exercise should be discussed. The doctor should be made aware of activities your child is involved in to consider risks, physical maturity and readiness. This also is a good time to review ongoing medical problems, like asthma or allergies, refill medications and complete medication sheets for school. The doctor will likely need to spend some time alone with teens in order to review confidential information related to drinking, smoking, drugs, sexual activity and depression. Write down questions for the doctor beforehand. Common questions during the medical history include:
- Were there missed school days last year?
- Any serious or recurring sports injuries?
- Any visits to the emergency room, urgent care or another medical specialist?
- Has your child started any new medications, vitamins or supplements?
- Has your child been successful in school and maintained friendships?
- Medical exam. The medical exam begins with height, weight, blood pressure and comparison to past measurements. A child’s growth is one of the best indicators of overall health. A head-to-toe exam should be performed. After the exam, the physician will determine if any laboratory, X-ray or other tests are necessary. Vaccination history should be checked and shots should be updated. Vision and hearing may be screened. Forms for school, camp or sports can then be completed.
A healthy childhood means balancing home life, school, social activities, sports and extracurricular activities. An annual visit to the pediatrician can help ensure your child is fit to participate and can head off illness or injury with guidance and treatment of ongoing medical issues.
FAST FACT: Children’s Medical Group physicians provide primary and
behavioral care for children in 18 clinics throughout southeastern
Wisconsin. In addition, Children’s Medical Group oversees school-based
health centers located in central city Milwaukee Public Schools.
Mary Lehrmann, MD, FAAP, is a pediatrician at Children’s Medical Group-Westbrook Pediatrics.