CRESTVIEW — North Okaloosa County students are going back to school on Monday, which also means it's time for annual physicals and immunizations.
“Annual checkups allow a physician to get to know the medical history of your child and monitor their development from year to year,” said Dr. Keely Kubly, pediatric specialist with North Okaloosa Physician Group. “Establishing baseline information and history makes it easier to identify potential concerns over time. These visits are very important to maintaining the health of your child.”
At a checkup, children receive a full physical exam — including measurements such as height and weight — and parents can discuss any concerns about the child's developmental, emotional or social well-being with the physician. Most insurance plans, including Medicaid, cover the visit.
Many children beginning school for the first time are required to have received certain vaccinations. “It is essential for children to receive the right immunizations at the right time, especially before beginning school,” Kubly said. “There is a very low chance that your child will experience side effects after receiving any immunization, but remember: these shots will protect your child in the long run.”
For children involved with sports or other physical activities, coaches may require a sports physical before they can play. A sports exam is similar to an annual physical exam, with addition of the physician’s review of sports-related matters such as nutrition and injuries. A primary care physician such as a family practice or pediatrician can conduct this physical.
Visit NorthOkaloosaPhysicianGroup.com or call 398-8725 for more information on annual physicals and immunizations. Same-day appointments are available.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: North Okaloosa Medical Center physicals help students kick off a healthy year