Planning Ahead for Back-To-School Physicals & Forms

Even though summer has just begun, you may want to start thinking about what you need to do to ensure your kids are ready for school come late August.

Here is why:

Beat the rush: We all know that getting in to see a doctor is not as easy as it used to be for a variety of reasons. By scheduling your appointments now, you ensure you will be able to get your child in and lessen the stress that will undoubtedly build at summer’s end. Especially as you shop for school supplies, clothes, and try to make the most of their last few days of freedom. There will undoubtedly be a rush come mid-August as everyone tries to get their school and sports forms signed, so getting those done now can help you avoid that and get your child’s forms completed in a timely manner.

Be prepared: If your child is playing a fall sport, getting their physical and any paperwork completed early will leave you plenty of time to deal with any health issues revealed. From taking medications to doing physical therapy, you want to be sure there’s enough time for your child to complete their treatment and not miss a single bit of the action come game time.

Stay current on vaccines: Vaccination requirements vary from state to state and grade to grade. Make sure you know if your child is current on all their shots and, if possible, get a flu shot and COVID booster.

To learn what shots your child requires, check their school website or click on your state’s link here:

Vermont

Massachusetts

New York 

Yearly physicals also provide the opportunity for your child to hear important messages about their health from someone other than you and to build a relationship with their provider. From sleep and diet to stress management and risky behaviors, your child may be more receptive to information provided by their medical provider than from their parent. This is an opportunity not to miss or delay.

Jaclyn Lozier, MD, FAAP, is the Chair of Pediatrics, Southwestern Vermont Medical Center and the Medical Director, SVMC Pediatrics.