School Physicals

What is a school physical?

A school physical is a preventive check-up that allows your pediatrician to evaluate your child’s health and provide screening for health issues and developmental disorders. 

Children grow and develop rapidly, and a lot can change over the course of a year. A school physical is an opportunity to check in on your child’s health and make sure they’re as healthy as possible. 

What happens during a school physical?

A school physical at LaSante Health Center is very similar to an annual wellness visit. Your provider begins by measuring and weighing your child. They check your child’s blood pressure and review their medical history, including any changes that occurred within the last year. 

Your doctor looks into your child’s eyes, ears, and mouth. They listen to your child’s heart and lungs. The doctor feels their abdomen, checks their balance and reflexes, and examines their joints. 

If necessary, they order blood work to screen for conditions like diabetes. Your doctor can also provide any necessary vaccines or booster shots. 

Throughout the school physical, the doctor also looks for signs of developmental milestones and common child health conditions like autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and eating disorders. 

If your doctor identifies any signs of physical or psychological health issues, they can help you get the treatment your child needs. LaSante Health Center is multidisciplinary, and they can take care of all your child’s health care needs. 

Why does my child need a school physical?

A school physical is an opportunity to check in on your child’s health and development. Many diseases don’t cause symptoms in their early stages. The preventive screenings at an annual physical are the only way to diagnose them and start the necessary treatment. 

At the very least, a school physical gives you the peace of mind that your child is healthy and developing within the standard time frames.

Also, school districts require physicals because they need to know that all the children under their care during the day are fit and healthy enough to participate in school. Routine vaccines protect your child as well as the other children they interact with every day. 

Call LaSante Health Center or make an appointment online today if your child is due for a school physical or well-child exam.