Back-To-School Checkups are the Cornerstone of a Healthy School Year

8/4/2021

VICTORIA, Texas, – With homeschooling and hybrid learning disrupting classroom learning for the past 18 months, it’s easy to forget what preparing for a “normal” school year might look like. In addition to buying new clothes and stocking your child’s backpack with the right supplies, an annual physical and the proper immunizations will start your child’s new school year on a healthy foundation.

“When it comes to keeping your child healthy, annual wellness visits are key to establishing a baseline of information about your child’s health,” said Dr. Narmeen Syed with DeTar Family Medicine Center. “These exams also help us to monitor your child’s growth from year to year and identify potential health issues early, when they are most treatable.”

Children should receive an annual checkup with their physician even if they are healthy. At a checkup, your child will receive a full physical exam including measurements such as height and weight. This is a good time for parents to discuss any developmental, emotional or social concerns with the physician. Most insurance plans, including Medicaid, cover a free annual well-child visit.

Immunizations are another important way to protect your child’s health. While COVID vaccinations are not yet available for children under the age of 12, there are numerous other vaccines parents should discuss with their child’s physician, especially for children beginning school for the first time.

Receiving the right shots at the right time will help protect your child from contracting various diseases and help prevent the spread to others. Talk with your physician to learn on what vaccinations your child should receive and at what age.

“Healthcare organizations like the Centers for Disease Control, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Family Physicians recommend a schedule of vaccinations that help protect children from life-threatening diseases, such as diphtheria, tetanus and polio, that once were commonly transferred from one child to another,” said Dr. Amanda Ndirika. “I urge my patients’ parents to follow the vaccination schedule closely, stressing the importance of ensuring their children are up-to-date on their immunizations before school starts.”

If you child or teenager is involved in sports or other physical activities, their coaches may require a sports physical before they begin to play. A sports exam is similar to an annual physical exam, with addition of the physician’s review of sports-related matters such as nutrition and injuries. A primary care physician such as a family practice or pediatrician will be able to conduct a sports physical for your child.

If you need help finding a primary care physician, visit mydetardoctor.com to be connected with one of DeTar Medical Group’s qualified primary care physicians.

Immunization Guidelines
School requirements for immunizations may differ by school district, so check with your local school district about needed vaccines for school admission.

Guidelines for well-child visits and routine immunization schedules can be found on the American Academy of Pediatrics website.

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