Tips to take the stress out of back-to-school appointments

Summer often has a calmer vibe than other seasons, so you and your kids might feel a little stress about upcoming schedule changes and what you need to do to get ready.

Many students need a primary care visit, including sports physicals and possible vaccination boosters before they return to the classroom. 

If your child is due for a visit, here are some ideas to make  those appointments as stress-free as possible:

• Use online scheduling. Use the My PeaceHealth patient portal to schedule appointments Tip: You can also use the portal to get on the waitlist for earlier appointments, if needed. Don’t have an account? Just visit the link or call your clinic to sign up.
• Ask what to expect. When you schedule your appointment, get clarification about what will happen at the appointment (eye exam, shots, etc.) to help prepare your child for the visit.
• Be prepared. Make sure you know what your child’s school requires for the upcoming year, such as vaccinations or sports physicals so you get what you need. Also have a list of questions ready if you have any specific needs or concerns you want to discuss.
• Consider a family medicine practitioner, especially as your child gets older. These clinicians see patients of all ages, so there’s no need to switch from a pediatrician as your child ages.
• Check off other visit types. Your child needs more than just their physical health addressed. Consider scheduling these visits as well:
  • Dental check-up
  • Vision exam
  • Hearing exam
  • Counseling sessions, if needed

Check out these additional tips to prepare for your child's visit. Download the pediatric check-up checklist.

Note:  Masks are still required in healthcare settings per the CDC and state health department guidelines. PeaceHealth continues to practice safety measures to keep patients, visitors and our communities safe.