What IS the difference between a School Physical and a Well-Child Check?
by Dr. Arika Dortero
The pediatric well-child check helps us to develop an open, trusting relationship with you and your child so that you can turn to us with questions or concerns regarding puberty, normal development or any general medical concerns. A well-child check goes into more details and preventative care whereas a sports physical is targeted at ensuring your child is safe and physically able to participate in sports.
A well-child check includes:
a comprehensive physical exam tailored at evaluating health growth and development
advice for developing a healthy lifestyle
may include a discussion of the following: medical history, growth, nutrition, sleep habits, physical development, physical activity, social development and activity, cognitive development and academics, risks to health and safety, immunization update, preventative health recommendations, mental and emotional health, peer pressure and avoiding drugs and alcohol
A sports physical includes:
a targeted physical examination that is focused on a physician’s opinion of whether the child is safe to participate in sporting events
a brief discussion of the child’s personal medical history and family history
Filling out School Forms
If you need to have a Sports Physical Form filled out and your child has had a yearly physical examination in the past 12 months, we can complete this form for a $45 fee without your child needing to have another physical done. We will complete the form based on the most recent yearly physical examination. Prior to dropping off the form, please complete all “parent” sections. We cannot fill out our part unless your section has been completed first. Please allow 3 business days for your form to be completed.
If you have not had your Yearly Well Visit done in our office, we will not be able to complete any forms until we have done a physical exam on your child.
Ready to schedule your child’s well-child check or sports physical? Follow this link to request an appointment!
See you in the clinic!
Dr Arika Dortero