As summer winds down and a new academic year approaches, many families in Tampa, Florida, are busy getting ready for back-to-school season. In addition to updating schedules and shopping for clothes, shoes, and supplies, it is important to make time for your child’s annual physical examination. A school physical is more than just another item to check off your to-do list—it plays a key role in supporting your child’s overall wellness and academic success.
At South Tampa Immediate Care, we offer convenient, walk-in physicals to help families in our community meet school guidelines and ensure their children can start the year in the best of health.
What Is a Back-to-School Physical?
A back-to-school physical is a routine medical evaluation that focuses on school-related requirements, such as specific health screenings and vaccinations. In addition to checking the child’s growth, development, and well-being, this visit provides an opportunity to address any medical concerns, update immunizations, and establish a health baseline for the coming year.
Typically, during a back-to-school physical, an experienced provider will:
- Review the child’s personal and family medical history, including any chronic conditions
- Measure the child’s vital signs, including height, weight, body temperature, and blood pressure
- Perform a basic health screening, including vision and hearing
- Assess the child’s development and behavior
- Check the child’s vaccinations
- Answer any questions
The provider can also provide valuable guidance on nutrition, sleep habits, physical activity, and emotional well-being—topics that are especially relevant during a child’s school years.
Why Is a Physical Important Before School Starts?
Many schools in Florida require each child to submit proof of a recent physical exam and an up-to-date immunization record before enrollment. This helps to ensure that the student is healthy enough to participate in school activities and protects the broader school community from preventable illnesses.
Beyond fulfilling school mandates, a back-to-school physical is a proactive step in supporting your child’s health. It can allow for the early detection of certain medical or developmental issues that could affect learning, social development, or physical performance. For example, an undiagnosed vision problem might hinder classroom learning, while an untreated medical condition, such as asthma, could interfere with academic and social success.
What Vaccines Are Required for Florida Students?
Florida law requires specific immunizations for school attendance. These may include:
- DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, and acellular pertussis)
- IPV (polio)
- MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella)
- Hepatitis B
- Varicella (chickenpox)
- Tdap booster for students entering 7th grade
During a school physical, the provider will review the child’s vaccine records and note the necessary immunizations.
Convenient Walk-In Physicals at South Tampa Immediate Care
At South Tampa Immediate Care, we make it easy for families to complete school physicals without a long wait for a pediatrician appointment. Our experienced team offers fast, thorough exams with no appointment necessary. Our walk-in clinic is open seven days a week during extended hours to accommodate your busy schedule.
Whether your child is just entering kindergarten or heading off to high school, we can help them start the academic year with a clean bill of health and the confidence necessary to thrive in the classroom.
Visit South Tampa Immediate Care for Your Child’s Back-to-School Physical
If your child needs a physical exam before starting or returning to school, visit South Tampa Immediate Care in Tampa, FL. Our team is here to support your family’s health with convenient, high-quality care. Walk in today, enter our waiting room remotely, or call for more information about our urgent care center.
