Camp Physical
What is a camp physical?
Camp physicals, also known as pre-participation physicals, are a crucial requirement for registering children in camps. These evaluations, mandated by camp organizers, may have varying regulations depending on the state. Before enrollment, it's essential to inquire about specific eligibility criteria from the administrators.
A camp physical aims to ensure your child's health and physical readiness for the diverse activities offered at camps, including hiking, swimming, and canoeing. The primary objective is to minimize the risk of potential injuries to children while they are away from home.
A healthcare provider preparing to test a patient's reflexes using a reflex hammer as part of a camp or sports physical.
Why do children need camp physicals?
Even if your child is in excellent health, day camps, scout camps, overnight camps, or summer camps may require a physical examination before attendance.
While this may seem inconvenient for a healthy child, it serves to safeguard the camper, fellow attendees, and staff from preventable illnesses, injuries, and potentially life-threatening situations.
Apart from meeting camp registration requirements, conducting a camp physical offers additional benefits:
Proactive evaluation of general health: Reviewing a child's medical history and immunization records, along with a routine physical examination, helps address potential health concerns before camp begins. This allows for timely actions, such as obtaining required vaccinations.
Identification of pre-existing and current conditions: Assessing conditions like allergies or recent injuries is crucial, as certain activities may be restricted for a child with a new injury.
Consideration of family medical history: Reviewing family medical history helps identify potential concerns such as diabetes or prior illnesses like asthma. This information is vital for making informed decisions, such as recommending medications or preventive measures.
This screening process helps identify potential health issues, preventing them from worsening or causing unnecessary pain, injury, or re-injury.
What happens during a camp physical?
During a camp physical at Cohen Care, providers will review your child's medical history, conduct an examination, and recommend additional tests if necessary. Subsequently, your Cohen Care provider will complete the required medical forms to be submitted to the camp organizer.
What is required for a camp physical?
Specific requirements for a camp physical can vary, but your child's examination may include:
Vital sign checks (blood pressure, oxygen saturation, pulse, and respiration)
Information about dietary supplements, medications, or prescriptions your child is taking
General physical examination (ears, nose, throat, heart, lungs, and abdomen)
Measurement of height and weight
Review of your child's and family's medical history
Testing for joint strength and flexibility
Vision check
Parents or guardians are advised to complete the necessary forms before the visit to expedite the camp physical exam process. Bring the following medical information to your child's camp physical:
Immunization history and records
Primary care provider's name and contact information
Relevant health and medical history, including allergies, current medications, and existing medical conditions
Providers can verify vaccinations given at Cohen Care or those documented by another healthcare provider. It's important to note that a camp physical exam is not a substitute for a comprehensive annual wellness exam and other screenings.