Physicals

Why are well-child physicals so important?

Far too many parents only bring their kids to see a medical professional once serious symptoms develop. This approach fails to take advantage of all that preventive care has to offer. 

To begin, pediatric exams are where your child receives the vaccines needed to avoid serious diseases like measles and polio. Kids’ exams, also called well-baby or well-child visits, give your child’s practitioner a chance to assess their growth and development. 

For teens and adults, annual physical exams are an opportunity to ask questions and receive guidance on a wide range of health issues. Whether it’s sleep quality, stress reduction, or nutrition advice, your annual physical is a chance to learn more. 

How can I help a child who is fearful of physicals?

Many kids develop a fear of medical or dental visits. These feelings can make necessary appointments stressful, and some people even avoid coming in for routine care because of anxiety. 

If your child is anxious about an upcoming visit, bringing them in during your next routine exam might be helpful. Once they see how easy these visits are and how welcoming the Germantown Pediatric and Family Medicine team is, they may feel better about their own visit. 

There are also a multitude of children’s books that focus on how fun it is to have a physical or dental exam. Find one written for your child’s age range and read it together as you prepare for an upcoming appointment. 

What happens during school and sports physicals?

School and sports physicals are intended to determine if a child is healthy enough to safely participate in athletic practice and play, or to attend school in a group setting. Many aspects of these exams are similar to your routine annual exams. 

Expect a quick check of the following:

• Blood pressure
• Breathing and heart rate
• Skin condition
• Reflexes
• Strength
• Neurological function

You’ll also share the details of your child’s health history and any conditions they’ve been treated for. Your practitioner then completes the required paperwork, and you’re on your way.

If your child needs a physical for school or sports, bring the required paperwork to the appointment so you don’t need to return later to complete anything.

If you need to book an annual exam or school/sports physical, the easy online booking tool is available around the clock, or feel free to call the office to check availability.