Get your summer camp physical
Camp is a fantastic opportunity for kids to explore the world around them, improve their mental health, increase Vitamin D levels, and get needed exercise. Advanced planning and a required camp physical will help ensure young campers are prepared for safe and healthy adventures this summer.
What happens during a camp physical?
During a camp physical, a general physical and medical examination is performed. Your child’s physical may include the following and includes many aspects of an annual physical exam:
- Review of your child and family’s medical history
- Detailed discussion regarding any dietary supplements or prescription medications
- General physical exam to check your child’s ears, nose, throat, heart, lungs, and abdomen
- Measurement of your child’s height and weight
- Test to check the strength and flexibility of major joints
- Blood pressure, oxygen saturation, pulse and respiration check
- Vision check
- Urine test to screen for underlying medical conditions (in some cases)
After the physical is complete, parents and caregivers are required to obtain necessary medical forms completed by the doctor, such as:
- Most recent immunization history and records
- Health and medical history forms which include any allergies, medications, or existing medical conditions
You are typically required to provide these forms to your child’s camp prior to them starting. Always check your individual camp guidelines for their specific medical requirements.
Where to get a camp physical
If you’re wondering exactly where to get a camp physical, there is likely a location in your local area. A camp physical can be done through a pediatrician’s office or at any local urgent care center. We offer various necessary medical services for the whole family, including required camp physicals.
What are the benefits of summer camps?
Camp is a fantastic opportunity for kids to explore the world around them, improve their mental health, increase Vitamin D levels, and get exercise.
Attending camp allows kids to find their voice, build resilience and develop the confidence to fend for themselves.
Being physically active outdoors can also reduce stress and anxiety, support sleep habits and help maintain a healthy body mass index (BMI), among many other physical and mental health benefits.
Exposing kids to nature can solidify their connection to the natural world, enliven their senses, and even produce a physiological relaxation effect.
Summer camp safety tips to know
Being proactive is key when it comes to camp safety. Advanced planning will help ensure young campers are prepared for safe and healthy adventures this summer.
Here are my tips to help parents prepare children to safely enjoy the great outdoors:
1. Confirm COVID-19 safety protocols and vaccine and testing requirements.
2. Pack medications.
3. Apply sunscreen.
4. Use bug spray.
5. Give a crash course on plant safety.
6. Book swimming lessons now.
7. Keep the kids hydrated.
8. Speak in advance with camp and medical directors about other chronic or potential health concerns such as allergies, diabetes, and asthma.
9. Shop for a camp with on-site healthcare.
Being prepared enables your child to have a more pleasant experience at camp and puts your mind at ease.
Common injuries at camp
While camp staff and guidelines are designed to reduce the risk of injuries, they can still occur. The following are the most common camp injuries to be aware of:
If any of these injuries occur in your child, it’s important to know where they can be treated.
Urgent care can treat common camp injuries
The last thing anyone wants is for campers or counselors to travel long distances and wait hours in an Emergency Department, risking potential exposure to COVID or worse, an outbreak at camp.
Our virtual visit platform allows camps like Camps Wah Nee to avoid transporting campers and staff chaperones off-site unless absolutely necessary.
When it is on-site we can quickly provide access to the appropriate level of care as we operate centers close to many camps. This reduces the need to call for ambulances or drive long distances to the closest hospital.
When you are back from summer camp and if you get an injury consider visiting one of our centers. A healthcare provider can quickly identify and let you know the best course of treatment. You can walk in seven days a week or save your spot online. We’ll have you back to feeling better in no time.
