By Maria Jauhar, M.D.
Good health may be the biggest boost we can give our children to help them get the most from the coming school year. No laptop, book, or set of school supplies can do so much to promote a good learning experience as wellness. An excellent attendance record, undistracted attention in class, and the open mind that comes with a positive outlook can all be advantages of scheduling your child’s back-to-school checkup now.
Back to school serves as a great marker for when to give a child all the advantages of a medical once-over. Yes, youth gives certain advantages for health, but think how eventful and demanding a child’s life can be. A lot can change in a short time, so it’s good to have this appraisal built into the family calendar.
The Invisible, Protective Shield
With the advantage of a family physician on your side, the records of your child’s immunizations are handy and accurate. Making sure your child is up to date is not just a good idea; certain immunizations are required by school systems, and your doctor’s office should be familiar with the local standards.
In addition to what may be required, influenza vaccination is recommended for certain age groups and for children with risks for complication from the flu, such as asthma. Vaccination and five-year boosters for diphtheria and tetanus are important to your child’s safety, and again these are examples of the benefits of establishing a relationship with a family physician – who else knows exactly when your last tetanus shot was given?
Homework Already? For the Parents?
There are things you can do before your child’s back-to-school physical that will make the time you spend there more efficient and effective. A checklist of what to bring to that appointment gives a whole new meaning to the idea, “prepared for class.”
Permission and contact forms are required by many schools to be signed by the parent, and in certain instances by the child’s physician. These clear the way for school health personnel to administer medication if a mishap or illness should arise, and they make it clear whom they should contact at home or at work if such a situation occurs.
Some schools require a physician’s endorsement of the permission slip that parents sign to enable their child to take part in athletics, band, or other activities. Make sure you know these school rules and bring the forms to your appointment if they are called for.
If You Are New to The Doctor
If back-to-school is the first appointment with a new physician for your child, make sure you are equipped with the information they’ll need to make a good start. Information on known allergies, records of immunization, prescriptions, and health history will form the foundation for a worthwhile relationship.
It’s important to look at our children’s back-to-school “physical” as an opportunity. With a little preparation it can be one of the most effective “school supplies” we provide for them!
If you would like to schedule a back-to-school checkup for your child, then please schedule an appointment with us by calling 912.897.6832 or use our online appointment request form.
