Get Ready for the Upcoming School Year
Whether your child needs a sports physical for athletic participation or a school physical for enrollment requirements, Bryan Health has six convenient locations spread across Lincoln, Seward, Waverly and Ashland. School physicals available in Waverly and Ashland only. Find the location nearest you
Sports Physical vs Well-Child Check (School Physical)
Sports Physical
- Focuses on participation in sports and activities
- Often required by schools and athletic programs for children in sports beginning in their 7th grade school year, but may change by sports/athletic program so we encourage you to confirm with them prior to scheduling an appointment
- Review injury history and identify health concerns before the sports season begins
- $53 at six convenient Bryan Health locations
Well-Child Check
- Comprehensive annual check-up visit
- In Nebraska, these are required for children entering kindergarten, 7th grade or those transferring from out-of-state
- Reviews growth, development and overall health
- May be billed through insurance depending on your plan
- Available at Family Practice of Waverly and Family Medicine of Ashland and Lincoln family medicine practices accepting new patients
If your child is due for an annual wellness visit, ask about scheduling a well-child check. In some cases, a well-child check may meet your school's physical requirements while also addressing your child's overall health needs.
What is a Sports Physical?
A sports physical, sometimes also referred to as an athletic physical or pre-participation physical exam, helps identify health conditions or previous injuries that could affect a student's ability to safely participate in sports.
Sports physicals are commonly required before participating in middle school or high school athletic programs. Getting a sports physical before the season, and typically the school year, begins helps ensure your child is prepared to practice and compete with their friends.
What to Expect
During the visit, a provider will review your child's medical history, including previous injuries, medications and any health conditions that could affect sports participation. The exam may include checking vital signs, vision, heart and lung health, strength, flexibility and overall physical readiness for athletic activity. If concerns are identified with your child's health, the provider can recommend next steps to help keep your child healthy and active throughout the season.
Remember to bring any school or athletic participation forms required by your child's school/athletic organization.