Back to School: Ready for the Bell to Ring

Children across Central Iowa are getting ready to head back to school in the coming days.

Exemplar Care’s Elli Vore, PA-C, offers up the tips below to ensure your kids are ready to go when that bell rings to start the 2024-25 school year.

• Vaccinations

  There are several immunizations required for children attending licensed childcare centers and elementary or secondary schools. While Exemplar Care does not administer immunizations, our providers work closely with members to ensure you understand which vaccinations your child needs, advise you on where to receive them, and provide the necessary documentation for school submission..

• Complete Your Annual Physical/Sports Physical

  To ensure your child’s development aligns with established benchmarks, such as height and weight, and to address any physical, social, or emotional issues they may be dealing with, they must have a physical examination annually. If your child is in high school and plans to participate in school-sponsored sports, they must have a sports physical annually. We provide these physicals and complete the required paperwork to ensure they are ready to compete. 
  

• Develop a Relationship

  The school years can be difficult. As such, it is a good idea to have a trusted adult—like a primary care provider—in your child’s corner. Regular visits to your primary care provider help your child build trust and develop a relationship with someone looking out for their long-term well-being. Their provider plays a critical role in assisting them to understand the importance of maintaining a regular sleep schedule, a healthy diet, and staying hydrated. Additionally, a trusted provider can also help them by talking through issues like bullying, peer pressure, and other common problems with teens.

  Read the following blog to understand more about well-child versus sports physicals and how we can assist our members.