No matter what grade your child is about to enter, a routine physical is an important part of getting ready to head back to school.  This annual exam can also be combined with a sports physical if your child plans on participating in any extracurricular activities throughout the school year.

Here are a few things you should expect when bringing your child in for a physical.

Assessment of physical well-being

During a school physical, the Provider performing will conduct measurements and assessments of your child’s growth and development.  This physical will include measurements of height, weight, pulse, and blood pressure, as well an evaluation of the eyes, ears, nose, throat, skin and muscles, and joint and spine.

Building a medical history

Routine physicals are a great opportunity for young patients to build a medical history.  Having a long-term record allows the Provider to track your child’s progress and development over time.

The Provider performing the exam will also review family medical history, previous illnesses, injuries, or hospitalization, and current medications.

Why does my child need a physical?

Every child should meet annually with a pediatrician or family medical doctor to monitor their development and discuss current health conditions that may interfere with their performance.  Another reason to have a physical administered is if they are involved in sports, and their program requires additional physical examinations to check for underlying health conditions.

When should I get my child’s physical administered?

Unfortunately, busy schedules and limited appointment availability can make it difficult for parents to schedule physicals for their children before the start of the school year or sports season.  If you’re faced with a deadline for your child’s back-to-school or sports physical, AFC Urgent Care North Andover provides walk-in availability for school and fall sports physical.

Our walk-in clinic is open seven day a week, including weekends, when most doctor’s offices are closed, making it easy to get your child’s complete physical for school, sports, extracurricular activities, and camp.  We offer convenient walk-in physical exams, or you can check-in online at a time that works for your busy schedule.

For more information about the services we provide, please call us at 978-470-0800.