August is here, and you know what that means—back to school! Along with all the usual preparations, don't forget sports physicals, well-checks, and vaccinations. Let's get ready for a fantastic school year!
Parents often ask us, why should we get a well-check exam when all we need is a form filled out?
A well-check exam is an opportunity to cover important health aspects that often get overlooked during sick visits or sports physical visits. While illness-focused appointments address immediate concerns and sports physicals focus on sports readiness, well visits delve into broader health areas such as growth, nutrition, exercise habits, and overall well-being. A well-check is the perfect time to ensure your child's vaccinations are up to date, and to get those activities physical forms signed, too!
Why do we vaccinate children?
Childhood vaccines save lives and keep your child safe. Benefits include:
- Protecting them from diseases like polio, rubella, measles, diphtheria, and more.
- Preventing outbreaks in communities.
- Protecting those who cannot be vaccinated due to medical reasons.
- Eradicating diseases like smallpox and achieving near elimination for diseases like polio.
Today, thanks to the development and widespread use of vaccines, the frequency of life-threatening diseases has been vastly reduced and, in some cases, almost eliminated.
How do you know which vaccines you need?
The CDC has a schedule of which vaccines people get by age. The CDC also has a catch-up schedule for people who have never been vaccinated or are behind on their vaccines. This information is available on the ARC website.
Make an appointment today
Before school starts is the perfect time to check in with your ARC pediatrician, family medicine doctor, or APC for your child's health. You can schedule a well-check exam in the following ways:
- Book at ARC MyChart if you have proxy access to your child's account.
- Click BOOK NOW on your doctor's or APC's website bio page.
- Click BOOK NOW at ARCcheckup.com.
- Call 512-272-4636 for 24/7 phone scheduling services.