Back-to-School Health Checkups During COVID-19: How to Safely Visit Your Child’s Health-care Provider Kids' Health Family Health

The school year brings a whole list of to-dos with it, including annual checkups and physicals for kids playing sports. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, parents are asking themselves, “Is it safe for my child to have a visit with their health-care provider?”

Most offices are offering telehealth services, so call your nurse practitioner (NP) or other health-care provider and see if they can schedule a telehealth visit. If not, here are some tips to have a safe health care visit:

• Check with your child’s health-care provider first. Find out what's being done to keep people safe during the COVID-19 pandemic, such as mask requirements, cleaning protocols and social distancing measures.

• Wear a mask. Ensure you and your child always wear a mask. If you do not have one or forget yours when you visit your health-care provider, your clinic may provide you with one. It is important to remember – even while wearing a mask – you should avoid touching your face as much as possible.

• Keep your distance. Try your best to keep 6 feet apart from others. Some clinics or offices may have signs or markings to help keep social distancing measures in place.

• Use touchless payment options. If you can, opt for touchless payment. If that's not an option, pay as you normally would and use hand sanitizer after the transaction. Encourage your child to avoid touching surfaces in the clinic and wash your hands with soap and water as soon as you are home.

The content on 30Seconds.com is for informational and entertainment purposes only, and should not be considered medical advice. The information on this site should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease, and is not a substitute for professional care. Always consult your personal healthcare provider. The opinions or views expressed on 30Seconds.com do not necessarily represent those of 30Seconds or any of its employees, corporate partners or affiliates.

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