by Arati Karnik

No matter what grade your child will enter this fall, there is always a last minute rush of things to do: purchase supplies and new school clothes, fill out forms and attend orientations. But one of the most important tasks for a successful school year is an appointment with your child’s pediatrician or family physician.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advocates that every child receive care through a “family-centered medical home.” This means care is provided by the same physician(s) over a period of time, particularly during the years from childhood to puberty when vital changes are taking place.

Having a long-term history with a child gives the doctor insight into the child's progress and development over time. It helps us detect emerging problems, being informed by details of the patient's history, such as past illnesses or injuries and changes in academic or emotional status.

Most insurance plans, including Medicaid, cover the annual well-child visit up to age 18. Below is a convenient checklist for your child’s back-to-school checkup:

Get your forms in order. Check that you have all the school and sports physical forms for each child, and ensure you obtain copies of all necessary records and physician signatures. Remember to bring special permission forms allowing the school to administer your child medications, if needed.

Medications and Supplements. Bring a current list of your child’s supplements, prescription or over-the-counter medications.

Immunizations. If you do not have a consistent medical home for your child, carry copies of his or her vaccination records. Trust your child’s physician to advise you on the best course of vaccinations.

Height and Weight. Ask if your child’s growth, weight gain and body composition are in normal range for his or her age, and whether any nutrition or exercise adjustments are appropriate.

Allergies and Asthma. Discuss any sinus or breathing problems, determining if any medications should be added or adjusted. Also include any environmental or food allergies.

Sleep Patterns. Discuss any issues your child has with quality of sleep. Depending on age, this may include bed-wetting, morning fatigue, and trouble falling or staying asleep.

Diagnostics. Depending on your child’s age, overall health and risk factors the physician may suggest lab work or additional testing.

Vision and Dental. If your physician doesn’t offer vision screening in the office, ask for a referral for an ophthalmologist.  Remember to schedule your child’s annual checkup with the dentist for cavities and gum health, and to confirm your child’s adult teeth are growing in properly.

Overall Wellness. The annual physical is a good time to ask questions or discuss anything concerning about your child’s development. This includes, but is not limited to, academic progress, social and emotional, body image, depression or lethargy. For teenagers, use this opportunity for an open, three-way discussion about alcohol, drugs and sexual activity.

Back to school can be a busy and stressful time for parents, but allowing the annual physical to fall between the cracks can lead to much bigger trouble down the road. Using this checklist will help you maximize the time in your pediatrician’s office, and give you peace of mind that your child enters the new school year with their healthiest and happiest foot forward.

If you do not have a dedicated pediatrician or family physician, visit www.mychestnuthilldoc.com, or call 215-753-2000 to find a physician and to schedule an appointment before the first day of school is here.  Dr. Arati Karnik is a family medicine physician at Chestnut Hill Hospital.