School Health Tips

Being school physicians for two public systems, Pediatric Specialists takes more than a passing interest in the issues related to health in the schools. We are frequently involved in the policies and consulted regarding issues of a medical nature that arise within the schools. This section of our Web site will highlight some of the policies and protocols as well as provide advice in anticipation of current state requirements. We also hope to address issues that arise during the year and provide a resource for parents who have questions regarding some health-related occurrence in the schools.

New Immunization Requirements:
As of 2011 school year students entering seventh grade are required to have a booster for TdaP (tetanus,diphtheria and acellular pertussis) as well as a second chicken pox vaccine. We are also giving the second chickempox vaccine before entry to kindergarten as well.

Sports Pre-participation Exam:
For those students who contemplate playing high school sports a recent physical exam is required. Most systems will stipulate a time interval, generally within a year of the beginning of a particular sport. Please check on your child’s requirements and check with your physician’s office to verify when his/her last exam was done and schedule accordingly. Be aware that some insurance companies will either cover one physical per calendar year while others stipulate that there must be at least a twelve-month interval between physical exams. These physical exams should include a thorough history as well as a review of the athlete’s record to identify any potential problems. The physician may also counsel the athlete regarding training and diet. At times, scheduling can be a nightmare as some still wait for the last minute to try and schedule an appointment. We will do our best to get your child in for a physical before the sport requirement and will generally create extra time (evening appointments or extended day) if it becomes necessary. Please help us by anticipating this need and scheduling early.

Meningococcal Vaccine:
Meningococcal vaccine(Menactra) which had previously been given just before college is now being recommended by the CDC to be given at age 11-12 years old and again at 16 years old. Although this has not yet become a state requirement for school we are now offering this immunization in the office.