School, camp, daycare, and sports physicals: What to do in the time of COVID-19

As some youth sports teams get started again, some summer camps and daycares are opening up, and we begin to think about school (or some form of it) in the fall, many parents are wondering: what do I do about getting that physical form I need for my child? Understandably, many families do not want to go to the doctor right now. They are worried about going anywhere, and especially worried about going to a medical office, where they are concerned they may end up around sick people. I want to say up front that most medical facilities are very aware of the risk, and take measures to make sure that patients can safely get the medical care they need. But when it comes to forms for physicals, in some cases families may not need to leave their homes at all — or if they do, they may be able to do it in a limited way. What questions should parents ask about forms for sports, daycare, or school? Do I even need a form? In many school districts, forms are not required every year but rather at certain times, such as kindergarten or middle school entry. Parents should check and find out; it may not be an issue at all. Some activities and facilities that the child has attended in the past may be willing to use a previously submitted form. It’s worth asking. Because of the pandemic, there may be some wiggle room or a grace period allowed for forms. Again, parents should check. Would my child’s last appointment suffice for the form? Very often, what is required is documentation of a ...
Source: Harvard Health Blog - Category: Consumer Health News Authors: Tags: Adolescent health Children's Health Parenting Source Type: blogs