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Immunizations And Back To School Physicals: Is Your Child Ready For School?

August 14, 2023

Mom bring her son to get a back to school physical and immunization update at AFC Urgent Care Springfield

As we celebrate "National Immunization Awareness Month" in August, it's the perfect time to prioritize your child's annual physical to ensure they are well-equipped for the upcoming school year. This isn't just any routine physical—it plays a crucial role in promoting immunization awareness and safeguarding your child's health. AFC Urgent Care Springfield is committed to providing comprehensive care during back to school physicals, aligning with the mission of this important observance.

Building Your Child's Medical History with Back to School Physicals

Did you know that a back to school physical is the cornerstone of your child's medical history? By scheduling an annual physical, especially before the school year begins, you actively contribute to building their medical records. This comprehensive evaluation not only aids in early detection of health issues but also ensures you are well-informed about your child's past illnesses, injuries, and immunization records.

Having a well-documented medical history saves time and facilitates better care as your child grows older. Prescription refills and managing conditions like asthma become easier when all relevant information is readily accessible to medical professionals.

Immunization Update: Essential for a Healthy Semester And School Year

Immunizations are an integral part of back to school physicals. They are crucial for safeguarding your child's health, protecting them, and the broader community from preventable diseases. By staying up to date with vaccinations, you play an active role in raising immunization awareness and ensuring a healthy school environment.

Schools typically require certain vaccinations for enrollment. Here's a list of commonly required vaccinations:

College Freshmen Need Back to School Vaccines Too!

Immunizations are equally important for college students, especially incoming freshmen. Each college may have specific requirements, so it's crucial to familiarize yourself with the immunization guidelines of your child's chosen institution. Protecting your child's health through vaccinations aligns perfectly with the goals of "National Immunization Awareness Month."

Although requirements can often differ from college to college. It’s also important for them to not miss out on these vaccinations, especially if they plan on living in a dorm. 

If you don’t know what’s required for your child’s particular school you look on the college website for Health Services where the requirements will usually be listed. If not, contact them directly. But, usually, the most common vaccines required for incoming freshman are (if they haven’t missed any vaccines during their early childhood):

  • Meningitis 
  • Hepatitis B
  • Influenza
  • Tetanus 
  • Diphtheria 
  • Pertussis

Are Back to School Physicals The Same Thing As Sports Physicals?

It's important to note that back to school physicals and sports physicals serve different purposes. While sports physicals focus on evaluating an athlete's fitness and readiness for physical activities, back to school physicals encompass a more comprehensive assessment of your child's overall health and medical history. 

Both are valuable in promoting a healthy lifestyle. If your child did not undergo a sports physical during the summer but plans to participate in a fall sport, AFC Urgent Care Springfield can accommodate both a sports physical and their annual physical during a single visit.

Visit AFC Urgent Care Springfield for Back to School Physicals and Immunizations!

As we observe "National Immunization Awareness Month," AFC Urgent Care Springfield is dedicated to providing the highest quality care during back to school physicals and immunizations. We prioritize the health and well-being of your child. Visit us today to ensure your child is ready for a healthy and successful school year. Together, let's embrace the spirit of immunization awareness and protect our community's health! 

Our clinic is open seven days a week, ensuring we are available when you need us. We accept most insurances, ensuring accessible healthcare for all. Let's prioritize our children's health during National Immunization Awareness Month and ensure they have a healthy and successful school year. 

Take advantage of our user-friendly online payment system, which allows you to pay your bill with the same simplicity as walking in or scheduling an appointment. With just a few clicks, you can easily and swiftly settle your payment.

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