School, Sports, and Camp Physicals in Erie, PA

Scheduling a physical for you or your child is the best way to take a proactive approach to your health. During a physical, our family care physicians have the opportunity to monitor your child’s growth and development over the years. By staying up-to-date with physicals, you’ll be able to keep up with their vaccinations during their younger years and can oversee any problematic health issues as they get older. Our practice provides physicals for an assortment of reasons, whether it’s the start of the new school year, or they’re prepping for the upcoming sports season.

If your child is in need of a physical in the Erie area, contact Community Health Net today to schedule an appointment.

Physicals Offered at Community Health Net

School Physicals

During a school physical, your child’s family care doctor will have an opportunity to examine year-over-year changes and progress. The younger years are more heavily focused on developmental progress and vaccinations, while adolescent years tend to be more focused on psychological and physical changes. This exam for teens gives them a chance to ask any questions relating to adolescent issues such as drinking, smoking, drugs, sexual activity, and depression.

Sports Physicals

Sports physicals are largely required by athletic leagues and schools. During this exam, the doctor will check your child’s vitals, joints, flexibility, and vision. This gives them an opportunity to flag down any issues that may cause injury during the season. Sports physicals should be given at least 6 weeks prior to the start of the upcoming sports season, giving the child ample time to correct any issues before the season. While a sports physical and an annual school physical have a lot in common, the sports physical does not include an evaluation of the overall health of your child. Therefore, a sports physical should not replace a school physical.

Camp Physicals

Also commonly referred to as a pre-participation physical, a camp physical ensures that your child can safely participate in activities. A physical may not always be required prior to your child going off to camp, but it’s still a great way to stay on top of their health. Please note that a camp physical should not replace a school physical.

How Often Does My Child Need a Physical Exam?

• For Infants (less than 1-year-old): We see all infants at 2 weeks, 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, 9 months and 1 year.
• For Toddlers (1-3 years old): Your toddler needs a physical at 18 months, 2 years and 3 years old.
• For Preschool Age Children (4-5 years old): All children need to have their 4/5 year old vaccines before starting kindergarten. Before starting 1st grade, most schools require the child’s first official physical exam.
• For School Age Children (6-11 years old): After starting school, your child only needs a physical every two years.
• For Teenagers (12-17 years old): If your teenager is not participating in school sports, they need a physical every two years. If they are participating in school sports, they need a yearly physical.