Why Sports Clearance Exams Don’t Replace Annual Physicals
A common question parents have is whether their child needs an annual physical with their pediatrician if they’ve already had a sports clearance exam at school.
The short answer is yes. And it’s important to understand why. A licensed professional conducting an exam at the school or an urgent care clinic doesn’t have access to your child’s health record. And the exam won’t include a full wellness and health assessment.
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Your child’s pediatrician knows their medical and family history, which is vital to maintaining continuity of care. The annual exam focuses on many areas of your child’s health, including:
- Overall growth and development
- School readiness and any learning issues
- Diet and nutritional health
- Chronic medical conditions
- Mental health and coping strategies
- Required vaccinations
Your family pediatrician is invested in your child’s health and can give you guidance and resources on a range of issues with your child’s physical, mental, and social health. Those needs can’t be met at a sports clearance clinic.
We are here and ready to help you meet all your child’s healthcare needs. Call your pediatrician today or sign up for Orlando Health My Chart to schedule an appointment today. You also can use MyChart to see test results, request prescription refills, and pay bills.
*Presented by Orlando Health Physicians Group | Originally published in the Jul/Aug Issue of Orlando Parenting Magazine.
