Back-to-School Physicals for Kids and College Students

There’s a lot that goes into preparing for a new school year: purchasing all the right school supplies, signing up for team sports, securing a college roommate, buying new clothes, and moving into a new dorm or apartment.

In addition to having all the right items and setup ready, parents also need to make sure their kid or college student is physically healthy and ready for the next semester.

Schools require physical examinations for each of their students before the school year begins. Every school has a slightly different policy, but annual physicals are most common.

At Link Primary, we provide back-to-school physicals for kids and college students—so here’s your rundown on what to expect and how to be ready when the time comes.

What to Expect from a Back-to-School Physical

During a back-to-school physical, a doctor checks in on your student’s health situation and makes sure they’re healthy enough to engage in school activities and sports.

Doctors normally note the following during a back-to-school physical:

Height and weight
Vitals
Heart and lungs
Food habits
Blood pressure
Sleep habits
Musculoskeletal
Medication history
Vaccination history
Allergies
Ears and throat
Flexibility
Strength
Other physical capabilities

Doctors want to make sure your child is up to par with each of these areas. That way they’re able to get the most out of their school experience—whether they’re starting kindergarten or their senior year of college.

Why Does My Child Need a Physical?

A back-to-school physical is required for kids and college students. In addition to adhering to school guidelines, a back-to-school physical gives you and your doctor a picture of your child’s health and what improvements need to be made. It’s important to be aware of any physical limitations or health concerns to prevent injury or future health problems.

For example, if your child suffers from asthma, your child may need to modify his or her activity levels. After receiving a physical, you can also inform your child’s teachers of such health problems, so they’re aware during school hours.

Physicals also allow doctors to notice any “warning signs” of future injury. They provide guidance and at-home ways to prevent injury and strengthen any weaknesses.

How Should I Prep for a Physical?

For parents with students still at home, start preparing for your back-to-school physical by gathering any necessary documents or information before your visit. This may include your insurance information, driver’s license, or vaccination records. Also, make sure you’ve filled out the necessary forms provided by your doctor and / or school system.

You may also desire to prepare your child before their physical. Explain to them the importance of physicals and making sure their bodies are strong and healthy. Children may be nervous at the idea of receiving vaccinations, so take the time to ease possible anxieties.

Also, consider writing down any questions for your doctor before your visit. That way you’ll make the most of your appointment time and not walk away kicking yourself for forgetting an important question.

Why Should I Choose Direct Primary Care?

The direct primary care model seeks to fill in the gaps of traditional primary care. For a monthly flat fee, patients receive immediate appointments, 24/7 access to their doctors, zero time in the waiting room, long appointments, and more.

Direct primary care doctors can get you in right away, so there’s no need to worry about getting your back-to-school physical done in time. With direct primary care, your back-to-school physical (and any doctor’s appointment) is convenient and affordable.

Direct primary care is an ideal setup for parents with students away at college. You’re unable to monitor your child’s mental and physical health during the school year, so a direct primary care doctor will make sure your student is getting the help he or she needs.

Direct Primary Care for Kids and College Students

At Link Primary, we provide direct primary care services for children and college students.

In addition to back-to-school physicals, our pediatric patients receive immediate appointments, a concierge physician, urgent care services, mental health services, and much more. If you ever have a question or concern about your child’s health, you can reach us any time via text, call, or email.

We also recommend setting up your St. Louis college student with a direct primary care plan. This ensures they have access to a doctor that knows them well and can monitor their health while they’re away from home. This model is ideal for busy college students who may not have much time to squeeze in an appointment. Thankfully, we’re just a call or text away! We also provide discounts on labs, tests, and prescriptions, which is especially helpful for college students.