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It's important to make sure your kids are on track with their well-child exams and immunizations. McFarland Clinic is ready to check on your child's wellness for the school year.
Learn the difference between a well-child exam, a back-to-school physical, and a sports physical.
Call any of our Family Medicine or Pediatrics offices. Online scheduling available in select locations.
Family Medicine East Office
515-663-8621
North Ames Office
515-956-4050
South Ames Office
515-239-3040
West Ames Office
515-663-4892
1215 Duff Avenue Office
515-239-4404
Middle School / High School sports physicals only. (Please schedule Well-Child Checks with Family Medicine or Pediatrics.)
Ames Lincoln Center Hy-Vee
515-956-4051
West Ames Hy-Vee
515-956-4100
Evening and early morning clinics available July 11-August 9, 2023, or schedule a daytime appointment with your primary care provider. Call or schedule online.
Sports physicals only. (Please schedule Well-Child Checks with Family Medicine or Pediatrics.)
Marshalltown Hy-Vee
641-844-5200
How do you know what type of exam your child needs? How often should kids get an exam? What's the difference between an annual physical and a sports physical?
A well-child exam is a comprehensive examination for infants, children, and adolescents. They include preventative care such as immunizations and screenings and should be scheduled at regular intervals during a child's growth.
Learn more about the different types of exams and physicals for your children.
A back-to-school physical is similar to a well-child exam but may include forms to be filled out or specific screenings or immunizations for school attendance. Ask your provider more about what forms or other preparation may be needed for a back-to-school physical.
A sports physical is typically a yearly exam for adolescents who plan to participate in sports. They are often required by schools in order to maximize safe participation. They usually require paperwork to be completed. A sports physical does not replace a well-child exam, but a sports physical can usually be performed as part of a well-child exam.
If you're not sure what type of exam your child needs, ask your provider. They will be able to make sure your child is up-to-date with screenings and immunizations.
In most cases, your child doesn't have to be established with a McFarland provider to get a back-to-school or sports physical, but there's no better time to start a relationship with a primary care provider.
When your child has a primary care provider, they get personalized care that helps them get healthy when they're sick, and stay healthy for the long run. If you want to establish with a provider, just let us know when you make your appointment.
