Summer camps and recreational sports leagues are a hallmark of summer break for many families. That also means that physician offices may be flooded with appointments for required physicals so that camp and league organizers have important information about your child’s health and physical condition. Even though summer is a few months away, now is a good time to review the deadlines for submitting the required information and set appointments. Here is some helpful information about what to know and have ready.

• Review Available Resources. Check with your school to see if they offer exams at the end of the school year that meet the qualifications for your camp or sports league. Make sure the timing works; for example, if the camp or league organizers require that the physical is within 60 days prior to attendance you don’t want the exam to be too early for a late summer camp. If your time window is short, and your primary physician is unavailable for an appointment, check to see if a retail or walk-in clinic is available.  As always, you should check to see if a new provider or clinic is covered in-network under your medical plan to understand what your out of pocket costs may be before receiving services. To find an in-network provider in your area, either login to www.myuhc.com and click Find a Doctor or login to the UHC app on your phone and select Find Care.
• Know What’s Involved. Students who want to participate in sports will likely need to get a sports physical, or preparticipation physical evaluation. The examining physician will ask questions about your child’s physical and mental health, allergies, and any medications they are currently taking. Even if your child won’t be participating in regular sports, camp activities may include things like canoeing and hiking, so a physical evaluation is still important. The organizers will also need to know if your child has a condition such as diabetes or asthma that may require counselor or coach intervention.
• Gather Necessary Paperwork. Check with the camp or sports league for specific medical forms required. These may include immunization records, a health history form, or a physician’s clearance. Bringing these forms and supporting health records to the appointment prevents delays.
• Verify Required Immunizations. Some camps and sports leagues require proof of vaccinations, including tetanus and meningitis and for other communicable diseases. Confirm that your child’s immunizations comply with the program’s requirements, or update immunizations according to your own concerns.
• Discuss Injury Prevention and Nutrition. Feel free to ask your child’s healthcare provider about injury prevention strategies, hydration, and nutrition to keep your child safe and performing at their best. The doctor may offer advice on stretching, conditioning, and proper protective gear for a particular sport.
• Raise Any Recent Concerns. Alert your child’s health care provider if your child has experienced any dizziness, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue during physical activity since their last exam. The doctor can evaluate any potential underlying issues before your child participates in strenuous summer activities.

Camps and sports leagues are a staple of a fun, active, and carefree summer for kids and teens. Physicals help ensure your children are medically prepared for a safe summer experience. Scheduling your child’s sports physical early ensures they won’t miss out — and don’t forget to review your medical benefits to see how annual physicals are covered. If you're enrolled in the Transocean medical plan, check when your child’s last annual exam took place and be sure to use a network provider to maximize your benefits