A school physical isn’t just something to check off your annual to-do list; it’s a crucial part of supporting your child’s overall health, especially if they’re planning on participating in any team sports or physical activities during the school year. To get the most out of your child’s appointment, you can plan ahead by bringing a few key pieces of information. The dedicated staff at Dumas Family Practice, serving the Northern panhandle of Texas, explains what you should know before you go, from vital questions to important forms.

What Should You Bring to a School Physical?

If your child’s school or sports program requires any specific forms to accompany their school physical, bring them with you. The forms may ask the patient to supply their medical information, such as any allergies, relevant family history, and prior injuries. For the sake of efficiency, make sure these questions are filled out before your child arrives for their appointment. Additionally, your child may need to provide forms specifically for their physician. This paperwork generally asks the doctor to indicate if your child is cleared for sports, cleared with restrictions, or not cleared without further evaluation.

As part of the exam, your child will have their height, weight, blood pressure, and pulse measured, and the doctor will test their vision and hearing. If your child needs any assistive or corrective devices, like glasses, contact lenses, or a hearing aid, bring them with you. If you aren’t visiting your primary care provider, secure a copy of your child’s immunization record for your doctor’s review.

Important Questions

A school physical is a good opportunity to address any questions about sleep, nutrition, and hygiene. Unlike sports physicals, a school physical can involve an assessment of your child’s overall mental health and well-being. For example, if your child is dealing with stress or anxiety as a result of their relationships or school activities, a medical professional will provide valuable guidance and recommend resources or support groups.

With this in mind, it’s important to bring more than just the required forms to your child’s school physical. When they’re getting ready for their appointment, invite your child to think about questions they would like to ask their doctor directly.

A dose of pre-planning can help your child feel reassured, supported, and, most importantly, healthy. The medical staff at Dumas Family Practice takes the time to provide each patient with warm, compassionate care to fully address any questions and concerns they may have. Whether you need a school physical or preventative care, these friendly doctors have proudly served the Northern Panhandle with the highest standard of care for more than 26 years. To schedule an appointment, call (806) 935-9005, or visit them online to download their new patient forms.