Back-To-School Checkups are the Cornerstone of a Healthy School Year
7/20/2021
Moberly, MO, July 20, 2021 – With homeschooling and hybrid learning disrupting classroom learning for the past 18 months, it’s easy to forget what preparing for a “normal” school year might look like. In addition to buying new clothes and stocking your child’s backpack with the right supplies, an annual physical and the proper immunizations will start your child’s new school year on a healthy foundation.
“Yearly checkups are a great way for doctors to get to know the medical and social history of children they are caring for, to monitor normal development, and to identify concerns early,” says Clark Butler, D.O., primary care physician with Moberly Rural Health Clinic.
Children should receive an annual checkup with their physician even if they are healthy. At a checkup, your child will receive a full physical exam including measurements such as height and weight. This is a good time for parents to discuss any developmental, emotional or social concerns with the physician. Most insurance plans, including Medicaid, cover a free annual well-child visit.
Immunizations are another important way to protect your child’s health. While COVID vaccinations are not yet available for children under the age of 12, there are numerous other vaccines parents should discuss with their child’s physician, especially for children beginning school for the first time.
Receiving the right shots at the right time will help protect your child from contracting various diseases and help prevent the spread to others. Talk with your physician to learn what vaccinations your child should receive and at what age.
“Vaccines are a safe and effective way that we can protect our children from a variety of serious illnesses. Parents may have questions regarding vaccinations, and it is important to discuss those with your doctor,” says Dr. Butler.
If your child or teenager is involved in sports or other physical activities, their coaches may require a sports physical before they begin to play. A sports exam is similar to an annual physical exam, with the addition of the physician’s review of sports-related matters such as nutrition and injuries. A primary care physician such as a family practice doctor or pediatrician will be able to conduct a sports physical for your child.
If you need help finding a primary care physician, call (660) 263-9095 or (660) 263-4770 or visit https://www.moberlyphysicians.com/ to be connected with one of Moberly Rural Health Clinic’s qualified primary care physicians. Moberly Rural Health Clinic offers same day appointments and extended hours. Call for more information.
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