School and Sports Physicals for Kids and Teens: What to Know Before You Book

Every year, many families find themselves searching for a school or sports physical at the last minute. A little planning makes the visit easier for everyone, and it can turn a required form into a real check-in on your child's health.

What is a school or sports physical?

A physical is a preventative health visit. Your clinician reviews your child's health history, checks growth and development, and talks through any concerns about activity, nutrition, sleep, and mood. For young athletes, the visit also helps confirm they are healthy enough to take part in their sport.

Physical vs. well child check: is there a difference?

The two overlap. A well child check is a broader look at how your child is growing and developing, while a sports or school physical is often requested to complete specific paperwork. At MacIsaac Family Medicine, comprehensive preventative visits include physicals and well child checks for patients ages 6 and up, so one appointment can often serve both purposes. If you need a particular form completed, mention it when you call.

How to prepare for the visit

• Bring any school, camp, or team forms that need to be signed.

• Make a list of questions or concerns you want to discuss, including sleep, mood, and activity.

• Bring your child's vaccination record, along with a list of any medications or allergies.

• Encourage teens to speak for themselves; it builds healthy habits for adulthood.

• Bring your insurance card, and check with your plan if you have questions about coverage.

Keep the whole family on one schedule

One of the biggest advantages of a family practice is convenience. Because we care for the whole family under one roof, you can often book parents and children on the same day instead of juggling multiple offices. Dr. David MacIsaac has a particular interest in adolescent and teen medicine, and our team is happy to talk with you about what your child needs this year.

Ready to schedule?

To book a physical or well child check for your child, call our Wexford office at 724.940.9190. You can also learn more about our full list of services and accepted insurances on our homepage. We look forward to caring for your family.