Health & Wellness

It’s Time for Back-to-School Check-Ups

Published

August 4, 2019

Photo: Susan Hellauer

by Dr. Asma Khan
With the new school year just around the corner, there is always a long checklist of things that need to get done. While it may not seem as urgent as back-to-school shopping for clothes and supplies, an annual health check-up will help make sure that your child or teen is on track for a successful academic year.

Why Check-Ups are Important

A yearly back-to-school check-up allows your family physician to give your child a thorough physical examination and address any emotional, developmental, or social concerns. If you have a teen, the check-up is also a good opportunity for him or her to ask any confidential health questions, including topics like drinking, drug-use, sex, and depression.

What Do They Include?

In addition to providing health-related guidance and advice, a thorough physical exam will include:

Heart and blood pressure monitoring
Recording height and weight
Checking the lungs, abdomen, ears, nose, and throat
Vision screening
Diabetes, cholesterol, and anemia testing

Regular check-ups are very important, as having a long-term medical history will keep the doctor aware of your child’s progress and development. This will help the doctor detect any emerging issues over time.

The Young Athlete

If your child or teen plans on playing any sports during the school year, he or she may need to have a physical that addresses sports-specific issues. These include past sport-related injuries, asthma and allergies, and an evaluation of strength and flexibility. Additionally, the doctor may have training tips or exercises that will help your child or teen avoid injury in the future.
At the end of the exam, the doctor will sign a form that indicates your child is in good health or may recommend additional tests or specific treatment.

Check-Ups: What You Need to Know

To stay in good health, every child needs a good balance of home, school, sports, and social activities. A yearly physical exam will help make sure he or she is meeting important milestones and give your child the opportunity to understand more about any changes in the body.
Give your child a healthy start to the school year with a back-to-school check-up! Come see us at HRHCare Urgent Care or make an appointment with your family physician or pediatrician today!

Asma Khan, MD, is the Clinical Director at HRHCare Urgent Care, 84 N Highland Ave between High Street and Sickles Ave in Nyack. Along with offices in Haverstraw and Spring Valley, the facility is part of the 28 health center HRHCare network in the Hudson Valley and Long Island providing comprehensive primary care.