Well-Child Visits Take Place of Athletic Physicals

Well-child check-ups are routine medical appointments that are essential for monitoring and promoting the healthy development of children under the age of 18. These appointments are designed to ensure that infants, children, and teens receive the proper care they need to maintain their health. Well-child visits are crucial for monitoring growth and development, nutrition, safety, immunizations and many important age-appropriate topics.

A well-child exam also fulfills the requirements of an athletic physical, also referred to as a “back-to-school exam”. Parents should call to schedule a well-child visit for their adolescent or teen at a time that works with their schedule. This will meet the athletic physical requirements for participation in 7-12 grade school activities.

Well-child exams will be filed with insurance and you can have one wellness check per year. Many plans pay 100% for a wellness exam. Check with your insurance company, if you have any questions.

“Many parents don’t know that a well-child exam will qualify as an athletic physical,” said Dr. Sarah Devine, MD. “Just bring the required athletic physical paperwork, and we will complete the form for you. The athletic physical lasts for 13 months.”

Schedule your appointment

To schedule your well-child exam, which includes the athletic physical, please call 712.755.4516. The Iowa Athletic Pre-Participation Physical Examination form can be found on myrtuemedical.org website under the tab Patients + Visitors | Authorization & Release Form | Iowa Athletic Pre-Participation Physical Examination.

Does a well-child visit count as an athletic physical?

Yes, an athletic physical exam is part of the well-child visit and is known as a pre-participation physical examination. The exam helps determine whether it is safe for a child to participate in a particular sport. The sports physical focuses on your well-being as it relates to playing a sport. A well-child exam is much more comprehensive and includes reviewing immunization records, discussions about behaviors, concerns and proper nutrition with the child.

How does a well-child check benefit my school-age child?

As your child grows, his or her body is going through a lot. It is important to monitor these changes closely to know if the development is happening at a normal rate. Growth patterns tend to change as children enter the pre-pubescent/adolescent stage of life. The wellness exam gives the practitioner a chance to provide the child with a thorough physical exam that also addresses any emotional, developmental, or social concerns. Well-child checks continue to be beneficial in providing education to middle schoolers and high schoolers, and their parents, on these changes and any challenges that may be present.

This annual visit provides an opportunity to discuss diet, exercise options, provide vision screenings, and additional testing. It is also a good chance to address important questions or concerns you have as a parent, especially with teenagers, including adolescent issues of substance use such as drinking, smoking and depression.