Spring is a great time to schedule back-to-school and sports physicals. This year, like always, it’s best to schedule those appointments in-person. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, we are safe and ready for your family. Dr. Patricia Newland, MD, explains what you can expect with these annual appointments.
Why Back-to-School Physical are Important
Seeing your child in-person could mean finding any and all concerns early-on. For children and adolescents, we remain focused on growth, development and well-being – including emotional well-being. For example, COVID-19 might be causing your child to feel anxious, stressed and/or depressed. Your child’s doctor will be able to do a basic check on your child’s mental health during a physical or well-child check.
How We’re Offering Safe Care and a Clean Space
We’ve spent a lot of time working on safety and cleanliness in our clinics, especially when it comes to cleaning procedures. We are using the exact disinfectant wipes you're supposed to use to take care of the COVID-19 virus, and we’re taking extra time in between patients to make sure every room is clean. Also, team members are wearing the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including masks.
How COVID-19 is Making Appointments Look Different
Besides PPE, you’ll notice different physical changes to our spaces, including waiting rooms. If you walk through, you’ll notice chairs are spaced out to support social distancing. You might also notice plexiglass at the check-in counters. That’s simply to keep any potential germs from passing between people. Many clinics also have virtual waiting rooms, which allows you the option to wait for your appointment in your vehicle. Call your clinic to see if it’s an option for you.
What You Need to Know Before the Doctor’s Appointment
We are asking everyone, including any children over the age of two, to wear a mask when coming into health care spaces. This helps prevent the spread of COVID-19. Often when the virus begins, a person won’t experience symptoms for several days. Wearing a face mask will help prevent the accidental spread of the coronavirus.
Besides wearing a mask, here’s what else you should prepare before a physical appointment:
- If you’re new to the clinic, bring previous records and vaccine history.
- Bring any forms needed for specific sports or camps.
- Check your MyUnityPoint patient portal for forms that can be filled out ahead of time.
- Encourage your child to think through any health-related questions they can ask their care team.
What About COVID-19 Testing During Back to School Physicals?
COVID-19 testing is not done as a standard part of a routine well-child or school physical visit. If your child has symptoms you think might be related to COVID-19, please call your clinic before coming in.
Make a Doctor’s Appointment, Today
Don’t wait to schedule your child’s back-to-school or sport physical appointment. If you have any questions regarding your care during COVID-19, call your clinic and talk with your child’s care team. Your safety is our top priority and we are here to care for you.