August is upon us and, despite the fact summer temperatures and fun are here, many parents are starting to prepare for back-to-school needs. At North Star Family Medicine, we are ready to assist families with their Back to School and Sports Physicals.
Kindergarten is an exciting time for both children and parents! As the child starts a new adventure at school, they are also at risk for exposure to new bacteria and viruses. Before entering Kindergarten, vaccination boosters for Tdap, Poliovirus, Measles, Mumps, Rubella and Varicella (chickenpox) are recommended. In addition to administering vaccinations, the visit provides an opportunity for the physician to evaluate health risks, such as obesity, and provide education on age-appropriate healthy behaviors. Most importantly, this gives the family, children, and the staff at North Star Family Medicine a chance to connect and to reinforce the doctor-patient relationship so when injury and illness occurs, we know one another, and the office visit is no longer anxious for the child.
Sport Participation Physicals are another opportunity for physicians to interact with children and adolescents to assess their general physical and psychological health. During the exam, in addition to assessing for life threatening conditions which may cause problems, our staff provide screening for conditions such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, obesity, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. One chance the Sports Physical offers is education to adolescents on health lifestyle behaviors, including the ever embarrassing “sex chat”, which Dr. Lelcu has perfected over the years!
Watching children grow and ensuring their health needs are met and exceed is a passion of the staff at North Star Family Medicine. Meeting with families and children every 1-2 years to discuss concerns, address health issues, and provide education on healthy living is a primary goal of our practice.
Our friendly and outgoing staff looks forward to seeing your family in clinic!
