What is included in a school physical exam?

A school physical includes complete medical history review, vital signs assessment, cardiovascular and respiratory examination, vision and hearing screening, immunization review, and completion of required forms for school enrollment.

What is the difference between a school physical and sports physical?

Sports physicals include everything in a school physical plus additional musculoskeletal evaluation, cardiovascular screening for athletic participation, flexibility and strength testing, and sport-specific injury prevention counseling.

How often does my child need a physical exam?

School physicals are typically required for kindergarten entry and 6th grade. Sports physicals are required annually for athletic participation. We recommend scheduling these exams during the spring or early summer before the new school year.

What should I bring to the physical exam appointment?

Bring the required forms from your school or sports organization, your child's immunization records, insurance card, and a list of any medications or medical conditions.

Can you complete the physical exam forms during the visit?

Yes, Dr. Dravid will complete all required forms during your visit, including school enrollment forms, sports participation clearances, and camp physical forms.

What is included in a school physical exam?

A school physical includes complete medical history review, vital signs assessment, cardiovascular and respiratory examination, vision and hearing screening, immunization review, and completion of required forms for school enrollment.

What is the difference between a school physical and sports physical?

Sports physicals include everything in a school physical plus additional musculoskeletal evaluation, cardiovascular screening for athletic participation, flexibility and strength testing, and sport-specific injury prevention counseling.

How often does my child need a physical exam?

School physicals are typically required for kindergarten entry and 6th grade. Sports physicals are required annually for athletic participation. We recommend scheduling these exams during the spring or early summer before the new school year.

What should I bring to the physical exam appointment?

Bring the required forms from your school or sports organization, your child's immunization records, insurance card, and a list of any medications or medical conditions.

Can you complete the physical exam forms during the visit?

Yes, Dr. Dravid will complete all required forms during your visit, including school enrollment forms, sports participation clearances, and camp physical forms.

Physical Exams & Health Clearances

Comprehensive physical examinations for school enrollment, sports participation, and general health assessments. Our thorough exams ensure your child meets all requirements while identifying any health concerns that need attention.

Professional photo of pediatrician conducting a physical examination on a school-age child (8-12 years old) in a bright, modern examination room. Stethoscope, blood pressure cuff, and medical chart visible.

Types of Physical Exams We Provide

School Physical Exams

Required physical examinations for school enrollment and grade advancement

Kindergarten entry physicals
6th grade health assessments
Transfer student evaluations
Private school requirements

Sports Physical Exams

Comprehensive pre-participation evaluations for athletic activities

High school sports clearance
Middle school athletics
Club and recreational sports
Camp participation physicals

Comprehensive Physical Examination Includes

Complete Medical History Review
Past illnesses, surgeries, medications, and family history
Vital Signs Assessment
Blood pressure, heart rate, temperature, and weight
Cardiovascular Examination
Heart rate, rhythm, and murmur screening
Respiratory Assessment
Lung function and breathing evaluation
Vision and Hearing Screening
Basic sensory function assessment

Musculoskeletal Evaluation
Joint mobility, strength, and flexibility testing
Skin and Growth Assessment
Overall development and skin condition review
Immunization Review
Ensuring all required vaccines are up-to-date
Injury Prevention Counseling
Sport-specific safety recommendations
Form Completion
Official documentation for school or sports requirements

Sports-Specific Health Screenings

Cardiac Screening

Heart murmur detection
Blood pressure assessment
Family cardiac history
Exercise tolerance review

Musculoskeletal

Joint flexibility
Muscle strength
Previous injury history
Movement patterns

Respiratory

Lung function
Asthma assessment
Exercise-induced symptoms
Breathing patterns

Risk Assessment

Concussion history
Heat illness risk
Medication effects
Nutritional status

When to Schedule Your Physical Exam

Plan ahead! Schedule physicals 4-6 weeks before school starts or sports season begins.

Spring Sports (March-May)

Schedule exams in January-February

Baseball, softball, tennis, track & field, lacrosse

School Year Preparation (August-September)

Schedule exams in June-July

School enrollment physicals, fall sports clearance

Fall Sports (September-November)

Schedule exams in June-July

Football, soccer, cross country, field hockey, volleyball

Winter Sports (December-February)

Schedule exams in October-November

Basketball, wrestling, swimming, indoor track, ice hockey

How to Prepare for Your Physical Exam

Required Documents:

Official school or sports physical form
Current immunization records
Insurance cards and photo ID
List of current medications
Previous medical records (if new patient)

Before the Appointment:

Complete any pre-visit forms
Review family medical history
Note any recent injuries or concerns
Prepare questions about sports safety

What to Discuss:

Previous sports injuries or concussions
Chest pain or shortness of breath
Dizziness or fainting episodes
Family history of sudden cardiac death
Concerns about sports participation

Day of Exam:

Wear comfortable, easily removable clothing
Arrive 15 minutes early for paperwork
Bring a parent or guardian if under 18
Ask questions during the visit

Common Findings & Follow-Up Care

Most physical exams result in clearance for full participation. When issues are identified, we work with families to address concerns and ensure safe participation.

✓ Cleared for Full Participation

No restrictions - student can participate in all activities

⚠ Cleared with Conditions

May participate with certain modifications or precautions

🔄 Pending Further Evaluation

Additional testing or specialist consultation needed

❌ Not Cleared

Temporary or permanent restriction until issues resolved

Remember:

Our goal is keeping your child safe while maximizing their ability to participate in activities they love. We'll work with you to address any concerns.

Insurance Coverage & Pricing

Physical exam coverage varies by insurance plan and the purpose of the exam. We'll verify your coverage and help you understand your benefits.

School Physicals:
Often covered as preventive care
Sports Physicals:
May have different coverage than routine checkups
Combined Exams:
School and sports requirements can often be combined
Self-Pay Options:
Competitive rates for uninsured families

Questions About Coverage?

Call our billing team to verify your benefits before your appointment.

Check Insurance Coverage

Schedule Your Physical Exam Today

Don't wait until the last minute! Schedule your child's physical exam early to ensure they're ready for the upcoming school year or sports season.

Call 732-626-5635 Schedule Online

Same-day appointments often available • Most insurance accepted • Forms completed same day