As the sun shines bright and the summer vacation season is in full swing, it might seem premature to think about back-to-school preparations. However, when it comes to your child’s health, getting a head start on their annual physicals is crucial.
Save Time Now and Hassle Later
Dr. Elizabeth Ranniger, pediatrician at CCMH, says acting now to schedule physicals can save a lot of hassle later.
“Scheduling a physical for your child in July removes the panic of not being able to get an appointment in August. Many parents wonder about the necessity of physicals now, especially when school feels so far away. Scheduling now allows for the time to get everyone, including parents, ready for the appointment. Waiting until later is a strategy but not always the best one when state law mandates annual physicals for school-aged children.”
Back-To-School versus Sports Physicals
But what’s the difference between a “back-to-school” physical and a “sports” physical? Dr. Ranniger clarified that while distinct, they can often be handled simultaneously by your child’s primary care provider, if you request it when scheduling.
“A ‘well-child check,’ ‘back-to-school physical,’ or ‘annual checkup’ are essentially the same. These are comprehensive evaluations of your child’s overall health, encompassing everything from physical growth and development to their social and emotional well-being. During these visits, doctors address any underlying health conditions and administer necessary immunizations. These check-ups are typically recommended annually for children aged three and older.”
“Sports physicals, on the other hand, are specifically tailored for kids older than seventh grade who wish to participate in athletics. These exams involve targeted questions and assessments to identify any underlying illnesses or predispositions to injuries that could impact their performance or safety in sports. At CCMH, these are often combined with the annual check-ups to provide a holistic health assessment and ensure all immunization needs are met.”
Student Physicals Are Important
Dr. Ranniger notes the importance of these physicals cannot be overstated.
“A student physical plays a critical role in uncovering hidden health conditions that might otherwise go unnoticed. While these conditions are rarely life-threatening, they can be addressed quickly and inexpensively.”
What to Expect
What should parents expect during these physicals? Dr. Ranniger emphasizes that these visits are an opportunity for your child to feel safe and comfortable with their doctor.
“Establishing a long-term relationship with a pediatrician or healthcare provider who knows your child’s history is incredibly beneficial for their ongoing health. During the exam, healthcare providers assess a child’s physical growth and evaluate emotional and social development. We review with the child and parent the relevant growth charts, discuss sleep patterns, and conduct a thorough head-to-toe physical exam, even if there are no apparent complaints. This comprehensive approach is how conditions like heart murmurs or scoliosis are detected.”
Getting Ready for a Physical
Dr. Ranniger explains that preparing your child for the visit is key to a smooth experience.
“For younger children, role-playing with a doctor’s kit can ease anxiety. For older kids, explaining the necessity of preventive health and routine check-ups is helpful. I recommend parents not to promise their child won’t get them any shots or vaccinations. Instead, explain why immunizations are crucial for staying healthy and preventing diseases, acknowledging the temporary discomfort. Setting realistic expectations helps children feel more in control.”
Immunizations
Immunizations and vaccines often spark discussion. Dr. Ranniger encourages parents to speak directly with their healthcare provider about any concerns.
“Schools require vaccinations for a reason: they are vital for preventing severe illnesses. In an age of misinformation, trusting your family practice provider or pediatrician, who has studied and understands these complexities, is paramount.”
Don’t Delay – Act Today
Provider schedules fill up rapidly as the school year approaches, acknowledged Dr. Ranniger.
“Delaying until sometime in August can make it challenging to secure a convenient appointment. A sports physical and annual physical are valid for a full year, so an early appointment ensures coverage for all fall, winter, and spring sports. Planning ahead also allows time to address any unexpected findings, like my heart murmur, which could require further evaluation before sports participation.”
To schedule your child’s physical at CCMH Medical Clinic, call 712-265-2700 or request an online appointment at ccmhia.com. Prioritize your child’s health by getting these essential check-ups done early.
