Back to School: Why Annual Physical Exams Matter For You and Your Kids

Backpacks? Check. Lunches packed? Check. But what about your child’s health—and your own?
As summer winds down and the back-to-school season ramps up, your family’s to-do list is likely packed. Between school supply shopping and juggling new routines, it’s easy to overlook one of the most important back-to-school steps: scheduling annual physical exams for both you and your children. 

Annual physicals are more than just routine check-ups—they’re a proactive way to protect your family’s health, catch concerns early, and build a trusted relationship with your primary care provider (PCP).  

Why Kids Need Annual Physicals Before School Starts 

For school-aged children, an annual physical exam is often required for school enrollment or participation in sports. But even when it’s not mandatory, it’s essential. These check-ups ensure your child is growing and developing on track—and they provide a chance to catch issues early, from hearing problems to emotional concerns. 

What’s Included in a Back-to-School Physical for Kids? 

• Growth and Development Assessment – Tracking height, weight, and developmental milestones. 
• Vision and Hearing Tests – Ensuring sensory functions are strong for classroom learning. 
• Immunizations – Staying up to date on required and recommended vaccines. 
• Behavioral and Emotional Check-In – Talking about mood, behavior, sleep, and mental wellness. 

Scheduling these visits before the school year starts helps address any concerns promptly—so your child starts the year healthy and ready to learn. 

Why Moms Shouldn’t Skip Their Own Physicals 

As a mom, you’re often focused on everyone else’s needs. But your health matters just as much—especially when your family relies on you. An annual check-up for you is a powerful act of self-care and prevention. 

What Happens at an Annual Physical for Adults? 

• Chronic Disease Screening – Early detection for conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol. 
• Cancer Screenings – Based on age and risk factors, these might include breast, cervical, or colon cancer screenings. 
• Mental Health Check-In – Discussing stress, anxiety, and emotional well-being. 
• Lifestyle Guidance – Support for healthy habits around food, sleep, and exercise. 

Seeing a primary care provider regularly helps you stay ahead of health issues—so you can keep showing up for your family and yourself. 

Having a Primary Care Provider Is Essential for Family 

Your primary care provider is more than just a doctor. They’re your partner in lifelong health—someone who knows your story, understands your history, and helps coordinate all aspects of your care. 

Benefits of Having a Dedicated PCP: 

• Coordinated Care – Seamlessly managing specialist referrals and medication needs. 
• Preventive Services – Keeping you on schedule for immunizations, screenings, and wellness visits. 
• Chronic Condition Management – Ongoing support for conditions like asthma, diabetes, or depression. 
• Trusted Relationship – A provider who listens, knows you, and is there when it matters most. 

Despite these benefits, nearly 25% of Americans don’t have a primary care provider. Establishing care now—before health concerns arise—can lead to better outcomes and lower healthcare costs in the long term. We make it easy to access whole-person care with same-day and next-day appointments—because your family’s health can’t wait.  

Schedule Your Family’s Annual Physical Exams Today 

Denova providers offer simple, supportive, and fast healthcare. That’s why we offer same-day and next-day appointments for both children and adults, in person and via telehealth. 

Whether you’re scheduling a back-to-school physical for your child or an annual check-up for yourself, we’re here to help you take the next step toward a healthier school year. 

Book your family’s physical exams today and start the year strong—with the support of a provider who truly cares.