Pediatric clinic encourages parents to schedule school physicals Published June 10, 2008 By Steve Pivnick 81st Medical Group Public Affairs KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, MISS. -- The pediatric clinic at Keesler Medical Center invites parents to take advantage of the summer school vacation to schedule their teens for well visits and school physicals. "Summer is a great time to bring children to our clinic for a routine physical so they do not miss any school," According to Capt. (Dr.) Melissa Mauro-Small, 81st Medical Operations Squadron. "There have been some changes to the immunization schedules for children and adolescents over the past few years and a well-visit is the perfect opportunity to review these changes with parents. In addition, we can evaluate your teen's growth and discuss any concerns you have about your teen's health or your teen has about their own health. "Most summer camps and sports teams require preparticipation physicals," Captain Mauro-Small continued. "Since well-visits book up to 28 days in advance, if we see your child for a physical, we can either complete a generic sports form after the visit or fill out paperwork that you provide any time in the next month. "Regular well-visits to our clinic help ensure that your teen remains in good health and up to date with immunizations," the captain added. "They will also reduce the stress of trying to schedule a short-notice sports physical. In addition, these visits are an opportunity for us to fill out school forms and refill long-term medications."