With kids heading back to the classrooms, parents are encouraged to get a jump on bringing their children’s immunizations and physical exams up to date.

“Do not wait until the last minute,” cautioned Kenner Army Health Clinic staffers. “Making appointments early is the best way to avoid the last-minute rush and meet the requirements for registering first-time students in Virginia schools.”

Kenner’s Wilkerson Pediatric Clinic has arranged a Saturday session for school physicals, by appointment only, on August 7, 7:20-11 a.m. Due to limited resources, the appointments are for children kindergarten to 12^th grade – will be offered that morning. Those wishing to take advantage of this special service can make arrangements through the Kenner appointment line, 866-533-5242, option 1, or the Tricare Online Patient Portal website available 24/7.

Beneficiaries unavailable for or unsuccessful in getting an appointment that morning are still encouraged to get an exam scheduled as soon as possible.

Frequently asked questions about back-to-school immunizations and exams include the following:

Who needs to come in?

All military dependents being registered for kindergarten need immunization and health checkup paperwork completed. Older children enrolling in Virginia schools for the first time also need an exam that’s no more than a year old. Youngsters already enrolled in Virginia schools are typically good to go unless they need a current sports physical.

How do I get an appointment?

Parents should call the KAHC appointment line at 866-LEE-KAHC (866-533-5242, option 1) to schedule an appointment. For questions or concerns, parents may call the Pediatric Clinic at 804-734-9125 during normal business hours, and the call will be directed to the appropriate area.

Why schedule and come in so early?

The sooner one comes in, the less time will be spent waiting, which could be risky. Children may not be allowed in school without up-to-date physicals and immunizations.

Are there any restrictions?

Yes, if parents have more than one child being seen, report early enough for all youngsters to be screened before the first appointment time. If multiple appointments are made with different providers, remember that both parents will need to attend unless there is more than an hour between the appointment times. Anyone bringing more than two children should be accompanied by another adult to help with supervision. Exam rooms do not support more than two children with the parent and a provider. All physicals are by appointment only.

What should parents bring for the child’s physical?

Parents should bring all immunization records and any medical documentation. The clinic has automatic access to records housed in the Kenner Medical Records Department. Also bring eyeglasses, if worn by the child. Check your child’s school website for any special paperwork that may be required parents can print out the documents and bring them to the appointment. The school entrance physical exam document is available at www.doe.virginia.gov/support/health_medical/school_entrance_form/school_entrance_form.pdf.

Is it true lab work needs to be done prior to the appointment?

No. KAHC has experienced some parents reporting they were instructed to come in for lab work or other testing prior to the actual physical appointment date. Others have stated their instructions from one of the local school districts tell them the physical is to be done in August. Both these statements are false. August is an extremely busy month. Make appointments today.

Kenner wants to provide the best possible care for military members and their families. Children are given physicals and immunizations to identify special needs and prevent illness. Parents are urged to schedule appointments now to ensure children can start school on time. Call 804-734-9125 for more information.