While school physicals and routine checkups have some things in common, they aren't always the same. A school physical is typically focused on meeting a school's health requirements and completing any necessary paperwork, while a routine checkup may take a broader look at your child's overall health and preventive care.
AFC Urgent Care Burlington offers walk-in school, sports, and camp physicals for families who need to get required forms completed before the school year or an upcoming activity. Our clinic is open 7 days a week from 8am to 8pm and we gladly accept walk-in reservations.
What Does a School Physical Include?
A school physical typically includes a review of your child's medical history and a general physical examination. The provider may check vital signs, vision, and other aspects of your child's current health while reviewing any medications, allergies, previous illnesses, or injuries.
The visit may also involve:
● Completing school paperwork
● Reviewing health concerns that could affect school activities
● Discussing medications, allergies, or previous injuries
● Reviewing vaccination records
The exact requirements can vary by school, so it's always a good idea to bring the physical form with you and complete any sections that need to be filled out by a parent before your visit.
How Is a School Physical Different From a Routine Checkup?
The biggest difference is usually the reason for the visit.
A routine checkup is generally focused on your child's overall health and preventive care. A school physical is more specifically focused on meeting the health guidelines for school enrollment or participation and completing the necessary paperwork.
Depending on your child's needs and what the school asks for, there may be overlap between the two. If you're unsure whether your child's recent checkup meets the school's requirements, check with the school before scheduling another appointment.
Is a Sports Physical Different From a School Physical?
A sports physical is more focused on whether a student can safely participate in organized athletics.
Besides reviewing general health, the provider may also ask about previous injuries and symptoms that occur during exercise, such as dizziness, chest pain, or trouble breathing. Strength, flexibility, and joint health may also be evaluated.
Some schools and athletic organizations require a separate sports physical form, even if your child has recently completed a school physical. Checking what they ask for ahead of time can help you avoid finding out you need another exam right before the season starts.
Can Urgent Care Complete School Physical Forms?
Yes. AFC Urgent Care Burlington can provide school, sports, and camp physicals and complete the appropriate forms during your visit.
Make sure to bring any paperwork that’s requested by your child's school, team, or camp. It's also helpful to have information about your child's medications, allergies, previous injuries, and relevant medical history available.
Walk-in physicals can be especially convenient when a school or sports deadline is approaching and you don't want to wait for the next available appointment with your child's primary care provider.
Get a School Sports Physical at AFC Urgent Care Burlington
If your child needs a school, sports, or camp physical, AFC Urgent Care Burlington has got you covered. Located on Middlesex Turnpike, our clinic serves families in Burlington and nearby communities, including Bedford, Billerica, Woburn, Wilmington, Lexington, and surrounding areas. We're open seven days a week from 8 AM to 8 PM, and most major insurance plans are accepted.
Walk in when it's convenient for your family, or save your spot online before your visit. For more information, call AFC Urgent Care Burlington at (781) 270-4700.