Why Is It Important to Get Back-To-School Physicals and Vaccines?

Why Is It Important to Get Back-To-School Physicals and Vaccines?

A doctor is talking to a patient and her father in a hospital room.

As summer winds down and kids prepare to head back to school, parents need to make sure they're ready not just with school supplies but also with important health preparations. Back-to-school annual physicals and immunizations are crucial for ensuring the health and well-being of children as they return to the classroom, no matter what grade they are about to begin.


In this article, we will explore the importance of these health measures and what parents need to know to get their children ready for school. We'll look at the types of immunizations that are typically required for school-age children and why they're necessary. We'll also discuss the benefits of annual physical exams and what parents can expect during these appointments.


By staying up-to-date on these important health measures, parents can help protect their children from illnesses, give them the most recent recommended vaccinations, and ensure that they are healthy and ready to learn.


How to Get the Most Out of Your Kid’s Back-to-School Physical

The best way to maximize a child’s physical appointment is to prepare a plan beforehand. Updating your child's medical information before their annual physical exam is crucial for ensuring that their healthcare providers have a complete and accurate understanding of their health status.


Even if nothing has visibly changed with your children, accurate and up-to-date medical information helps healthcare providers make informed decisions regarding the children's healthcare needs.


The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends completing your child's health history form before your annual wellness exam.


When updating your child's medical information, there are several key factors to consider:


  • Update emergency contact information.
  • Give detailed information about any existing medical conditions, including chronic illnesses, allergies, or medications.
  • Provide the children’s vaccination history, including the dates and types of vaccines they have received.
  • Inform of any recent injuries.


Another important task to complete before attending the medical appointment is to draft a battery of questions. 


What to Expect During These Appointments?

Physicals are not just about checking a child's height and weight; they are also an opportunity for physicians to evaluate a child’s development. 


During a physical exam, physicians can discuss their nutrition, sleep habits, and developmental changes to ensure that they are growing and thriving as they should be. Even if everything seems fine, the conversation with the physician can bring up important points that may have been overlooked or forgotten.


Some of the standard assessments may include: 


  • Collect basic information, such as height and weight measurements. 
  • Check vitals and blood pressure.
  • Revise muscle strength, balance, and reflexes.
  • Spot any abnormalities in the ears, eyes, nose, throat, and skin.
  • Listen through a stethoscope to the heart and lungs.
  • Check out the back for scoliosis—an abnormal curvature of the spine.
  • Look for signs of puberty and development.


The Importance of a Sports Physical

Even if a child doesn’t participate in any sports, it’s important to schedule a sports physical. The truth is that all children are potential athletes, according to new guidance from six important medical organizations. 


The annual check-up and the sports physical have two different purposes. As described earlier in this blog, a back-to-school physical is, in a broad sense, a head-to-toe check-up. Meanwhile, the sports physical assesses the child’s capability to participate in certain sports.


Not only can a sports physical help identify any potential health issues that could affect a child's ability to participate in sports, but it can also help prevent injuries.


Ensuring that your child is healthy, up-to-date on immunizations, and cleared to participate in school sports are vital steps to take as we approach the back-to-school season. By scheduling a physical exam for your child, you are taking a proactive approach to their health and well-being.


5 Benefits of Annual Physicals

Back-to-school physicals are an important part of ensuring that children are healthy and growing to their full potential. It’s also the perfect moment for the parents to express their questions and concerns to the pediatrician.


Some of the benefits may include:


Early Detection of Potential Health Issues

Regular physical exams can help detect potential health issues early on and prevent them from developing into more serious conditions.


Updated Vaccination Records

One of the main concerns among parents is staying up to date with their children's vaccinations. During a physical exam, healthcare providers can review a child's immunization records and ensure that they are up-to-date on all recommended vaccines.


Promoting Healthy Habits

Physical exams can provide an opportunity to discuss healthy habits such as nutrition, exercise, and sleep habits with children and their parents.


Supporting Academic Success

A child who is healthy and well-nourished is more likely to succeed academically and be willing to participate in school activities.


Addressing Mental Health Concerns

Physical exams can also be an opportunity to discuss any mental health concerns and provide support and resources for children who may be struggling.


Types of Immunizations Required

The beginning of the school year is the perfect time for a variety of checkups, along with ensuring that the vaccinations are up-to-date.


Immunizations are crucial for protecting children from potentially harmful diseases. States such as Louisiana have state-wide programs that provide vaccines at no cost to eligible children and youth.


There are several vaccinations that are required for children. The difference between immunization requirements and recommendations can be confusing. It’s useful for parents to understand these definitions, per Louisiana’s Immunization Guide for Schools:


  • Requirements: Students are required by state law to get certain vaccines to enter and attend school.
  • Recommendations: The Louisiana Department of Health Office of Public Health provides a timetable with recommended immunizations by age gap.


The state sets vaccination requirements for children based on their age, and a child's immunization status is considered out of compliance if they have not received all of the required vaccines. On the contrary, if a child has received all of the vaccines required for their age group, their immunization status is considered complete. 


In general, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provide a table with the recommended vaccinations a child has to get from ages 0–18, which may include:


  • Hepatitis A, B
  • Rotavirus
  • DTaP 
  • Dengue
  • Polio
  • Measles, mumps, and rubella
  • Varicella
  • Meningitis
  • Influenza
  • Covid-19


It is important to talk with your child’s primary care provider about Covid-19 vaccinations during a back-to-school physical. The school may need this information before the start of the new school year. 


Additionally, it's also important to consult with a child's healthcare provider to ensure that all required and recommended vaccinations are up-to-date, as these may vary from state to state. 


Now that you know the importance of back-to-school physicals, it's time to schedule an appointment for your child at Bayou Bend Health System. Our experienced and dedicated physicians and pediatric professionals in Louisiana are dedicated to providing the highest level of care to your children and family. Don't wait until the last minute. Contact us today to schedule your children’s medical appointment and experience the difference that Bayou Bend Health System can make in your family's healthcare journey.

A Beginner’s Guide to Understanding Your Blood Tests

August 28, 2026
Blood tests are common tools healthcare providers use to understand what is happening inside the body. Whether part of a routine physical, a preventive visit, or an evaluation for a specific concern, blood tests give valuable information about overall health. Seeing a list of numbers and medical terms on a lab report can feel overwhelming, but understanding the basics helps patients feel more informed. Bayou Bend Health System offers comprehensive healthcare services and helps patients understand their lab results and what they may mean for their wellness. Why Are Blood Tests Important? Blood tests can provide healthcare providers with information that may not be apparent during a physical examination. They can help monitor overall health, identify likely concerns, and monitor changes over time. Depending on the type of test ordered, blood work may provide information about: • Blood cell counts • Blood sugar levels • Cholesterol and heart health • Kidney and liver function • Electrolyte levels • Nutritional deficiencies • Inflammation or infection • Other indicators of overall health Routine blood tests help healthcare providers spot changes early, so patients can talk over next steps. Understanding a Complete Blood Count (CBC) A complete blood count, or CBC, is a frequently ordered blood test. It measures different types of blood cells and provides information about several aspects of health. A CBC may include measurements of: • Red blood cells that disperse oxygen throughout the body • White blood cells, that fight unwanted infections from spreading • Hemoglobin, a protein that carries oxygen • Hematocrit, which measures the proportion of blood made up of red blood cells • Platelets, which help with blood clotting A healthcare provider explains what individual results mean based on a patient’s health history and other findings. What Do Blood Sugar Tests Tell You? Blood glucose testing measures blood sugar. These tests screen for or monitor blood sugar conditions, including diabetes. Common blood sugar tests include fasting blood glucose and hemoglobin A1C. An A1C test estimates average blood sugar levels over the previous several months. Understanding blood sugar results helps patients and providers discuss nutrition, physical activity, medications, and other factors supporting healthy glucose levels. Understanding Cholesterol and Lipid Tests Cholesterol testing is a common part of preventive healthcare. A lipid panel measures overall cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides. These numbers help healthcare providers evaluate cardiovascular risk alongside elements such as age, blood pressure, family history, lifestyle, and existing health conditions. A single cholesterol number doesn't tell the whole story. Your provider can help interpret your results within the context of your overall health. What Does It Mean When a Result Is “High” or “Low”? Seeing a result marked high or low can cause concern. However, a result outside the reference range does not automatically mean something is wrong. Reference ranges can vary by laboratory, test, and individual factors. Providers consider the complete picture—including symptoms, medical history, medications, and other test results—when interpreting laboratory findings. Patients should avoid self-diagnosing based on individual numbers. Instead, discuss questions or unexpected results with a qualified healthcare professional. Take an Active Role in Your Health Understanding your blood tests can make healthcare visits less confusing and help you have more productive conversations with your provider. If you receive lab results you don't understand, ask questions and ask for an explanation of what the numbers mean for your health. At Bayou Bend Health System, our healthcare professionals are committed to helping patients understand their health and help make informed decisions about their care. Whether you need routine blood work, preventive care, or help understanding your lab results, our team is here to help.  Schedule an appointment today by calling (337) 828-0760 and take an important step toward gaining insight and managing your health.

Back-to-School Prep: Why Physicals and Vaccines Matter Before the First Bell

July 29, 2026
As summer ends, families prepare for a successful school year with new supplies, updated schedules, and fresh goals. While shopping for backpacks and school clothes is important, one essential part of back-to-school preparation is ensuring children are healthy and ready to learn. Routine physicals, recommended vaccines, and preventive healthcare visits help students start the year feeling their best. Bayou Bend Health System provides comprehensive pediatric and family healthcare services to support children and families throughout the school year. Schedule a Back-to-School Physical Exam A yearly physical exam is important to preserve a child’s overall health. These visits let healthcare providers monitor growth, development, and wellness while identifying concerns before they become bigger issues . During a back-to-school physical, providers may review: Height, weight, and growth patterns Blood pressure and vital signs Vision and hearing health Nutrition and physical activity habits Sleep routines and overall wellness Medical history and current health concerns These appointments also give families a chance to ask questions about their child’s health, discuss changes, and get guidance to support healthy habits throughout the school year. Stay Up to Date on Recommended Vaccines Vaccinations are a key part of back-to-school preparation. Immunizations protect children from preventable diseases and help create a healthier school environment by reducing the spread of infections among students, teachers, and families. Depending on age and vaccination history, children may need routine immunizations or booster shots before returning to class. Medical professionals can review records, identify missing vaccines, and help families create a plan to keep children protected. Common school-required or recommended vaccines may include protection against: Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap) Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) Chickenpox (varicella) Meningococcal disease Influenza (flu) Other recommended childhood illnesses Keeping immunizations current helps students attend school safely and confidently. Prepare for Sports and Physical Activities For children in sports, physical activity programs, or extracurricular activities, a sports physical may be required before participation. These evaluations determine if a child is ready for physical activity and let providers identify likely concerns related to heart health, injuries, or other conditions. A sports physical can also be a great time to discuss injury prevention, proper nutrition, hydration, and safe exercise habits. Address Vision, Hearing, and Other Health Concerns Children rely on healthy vision and hearing to participate fully in class. Difficulty seeing the board, hearing instructions, or focusing on lessons can affect educational performance and confidence. A physical exam can help identify concerns early and connect families with additional care when needed. Dealing with these issues before the school year begins allows students to focus on learning free of unnecessary barriers. Support Your Child’s Mental and Emotional Wellness Back-to-school preparation is not only about physical health. Returning to school brings excitement, new challenges, and changes in routines. Healthcare visits provide a chance to discuss mental well-being, stress, anxiety, sleep habits, and other concerns that may affect a child’s success. Candid talks about mental health help children feel cared for as they manage academic and social experiences throughout the year. Start the School Year with Confidence A healthy start can have a notable effect on a child’s school experience. Scheduling physicals, updating vaccines, and handling health concerns before the first day of class help children enter the school year prepared for success. At Bayou Bend Health System, our team is focused on providing compassionate, comprehensive care for children and families. If your child needs a routine checkup, immunizations, sports clearance, or guidance toward maintaining good health, our providers are here to help. Schedule your child’s back-to-school visit today by calling 337-907-6764 and take an important move toward a healthy and successful school year. 

Meet Dr. Kelly Bewsey, MD, PhD: Expert Urologic Care Close to Home

June 30, 2026
Many people delay seeking urinary care due to embarrassment, uncertainty, or the belief that symptoms are a normal part of aging. However, most urologic conditions are highly treatable, and early intervention can positively affect quality of life. Bayou Bend Health System welcomes Kelly Bewsey, MD, PhD, a skilled urologist dedicated to helping patients achieve better urinary and reproductive health through compassionate, bespoke care. Comprehensive Urology Services for Men and Women Dr. Bewsey offers expert evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment for a broad range of urologic conditions in both men and women. He is committed to helping patients find effective solutions and regain confidence in their daily lives, whether they are experiencing symptoms or seeking preventive care. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) Urinary tract infections are a common reason for seeking urologic care. Though occasional UTIs are often treated quickly, recurrent infections may signal an underlying issue that needs further evaluation. Dr. Bewsey works with patients to identify the cause of recurring infections and develop treatment plans to help prevent future episodes. Kidney Stones Kidney stones can cause severe pain and frequently require specialized care. Dr. Bewsey provides comprehensive management, including diagnostic evaluations, treatment options, and preventive approaches to reduce the risk of future stones. Bladder Health and Overactive Bladder Bladder conditions can interrupt daily activities, sleep, work, and social engagements. Patients with frequent urination, urgency, or difficulty controlling their bladder may benefit from evaluation for overactive bladder or related conditions. Dr. Bewsey develops individualized treatment plans to improve bladder function and restore comfort. Hematuria (Blood in the Urine) Blood in the urine should never be ignored. Hematuria can result from infections, kidney stones, or more serious conditions. Dr. Bewsey provides thorough diagnostic evaluations to determine the cause and recommend appropriate treatment. Prostate Health and Screenings Prostate health is an important aspect of preventive care for men. Regular screenings can detect concerns early, when treatment is most effective. Dr. Bewsey offers prostate evaluations, screenings, and ongoing management to help patients make educated choices regarding their health. Erectile Dysfunction Erectile dysfunction influences millions of men and may significantly affect confidence, relationships, and well-being. Dr. Bewsey works with patients to identify contributing factors and explore treatment options that address both physical and emotional aspects. Urinary Incontinence and Pelvic Floor Disorders Urinary leakage and pelvic floor disorders are common but often underreported. These conditions can impact individuals of all ages and may result from childbirth, aging, surgery, or other health factors. Dr. Bewsey provides complete evaluations and care plans to improve bladder control and pelvic health. Personal Care You Can Trust At Bayou Bend Health System, we recognize that urologic concerns can be sensitive and difficult to discuss. Dr. Kelly Bewsey is committed to establishing a welcoming environment where patients are comfortable sharing their symptoms and concerns. Through advanced diagnostics, evidence-based treatments, and patient-focused care, he helps individuals achieve better health outcomes and improved quality of life.  If you are experiencing urinary symptoms, have concerns about prostate health, or want to learn more about available urology services, schedule an appointment with Dr. Kelly Bewsey, MD, PhD. Expert urologic care is now available close to home at Bayou Bend Health System.