Both back-to-school and sports physicals are now being scheduled at the CCMH Medical Clinic. To request an appointment, go online to www.ccmhia.com or call 712-265-2700.
“There are a lot of parents who would say to themselves, ‘it seems like those kids just got out of school two weeks ago.” Still, I’ve been getting a lot of phone calls within the past week. Parents are realizing it’s time.”
That’s Michael DeLong, Immunization Specialist in the CCMH Medical Clinic.
“For sports physicals, we need to make sure kids are healthy enough to play sports. This is especially true if a student has any underlying conditions like asthma, diabetes, or other chronic conditions. An in-depth physical is vital before participating in these physical activities.”
DeLong says a sports physical form is needed for the appointment.
“Parents or guardians can pick up a sports physical form at either the clinic registration desk or at the school. It’s helpful to have the form filled out before the student has his or her appointment but not necessary. If no additional tests are required sports physicals are a cash transaction. The sports physical is only $25 and must be paid on the day of the appointment.”
Sports physicals and back-to-school physicals are much the same but with a crucial difference DeLong noted.
“The difference between the two types of physicals is getting kids up-to-date on their immunizations. There are certain grades that need updated immunizations before the state will allow them to go, or return, to school. Kindergarteners, seventh graders, and high school seniors need updated immunizations. When you’re 16 years of age, there are still immunizations and then there are the catch-ups because some of the immunizations are a two-dose series.”
Parents should check their health insurance plans. If immunizations are needed, the physical might be included in Well Child visit and can be billed through insurance.
“If a student hasn’t had a well child visit within the last year, it can be scheduled accordingly, and all deductibles and co-pays can be applied. The clinic will manage the paperwork for submitting the claim and parents or guardians will only have to cover the co-pay.”
DeLong explained parents who have questions whether their child needs a Well Child Visit or a sports physical to ask for Michael and he can answer their questions.
“Contact me at 712-265-2700. If I’m available, I will be happy to take the call. If not, please feel free to leave a message and I’ll get back to you right away. My phone is ringing off the hook right now. This is the beginning of the ritual parents go through every year in order to be able to get their kids back in school. What’s important to remember is these immunizations are required before kids can go back, especially for the seventh graders and kindergartners, and those high school seniors needing a second meningitis A vaccine.”
