With the final days of summer upon us, back-to-school items are already popping up on store shelves. Pediatricians at Catholic Health remind families that getting their child scheduled for back to a school physical should be on their checklist.
The annual physical allows the pediatrician to monitor your child’s height, weight, hearing, and vision, as well address any emotional, developmental, or social concerns. These exams also address preventative issues and help regulate pre-existing conditions like asthma and allergies.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends school age children should get a physical at least once every two years. “Create a list of items to discuss with your child’s pediatrician,” recommended Jack F. Coyne, MD, chairman of Pediatrics for Catholic Health. Dr. Coyne noted that parents should consider the following questions at their child’s physical appointment:
Are there any vaccines my child may need for this visit or in the future?
