Know the difference: Well-check exams and sports physicals

Collage featuring a pediatric patient during a well-check exam with Dr. Daniel Coelho, ARC Pediatrician, and a happy cheerleader outdoors with the words "Check in of a Checkup" in the center of the collage

ARC Pediatrics offers well-check exams to address your child's growth and development, provide preventive health care such as vaccinations and screenings, address parental concerns, and promote healthy habits. It's also a great time to complete UIL forms for sports physicals, camp, and other activities.

Here is a breakdown of the differences between well-checks and sports physicals and what to expect during your child's well-check exam.

Well-check exams

For school-aged children, well-checks are recommended at least once a year, even if your child has already had a sports physical at school or from another clinic.

During a well-check, your child's doctor or advanced practice clinician (APC) will cover:

  • Growth and development
  • Immunization or vaccine updates
  • Health and safety
  • Nutrition and physical fitness
  • Teen topics, like puberty and acne
  • Learning and behavioral questions
  • Family and social concerns

Sports physicals

A sports physical, also known as a pre-participation physical evaluation, is typically required by schools or sports organizations before your child can join a sports team or participate in organized physical activities.

While both a sports physical and a well-child check involve assessing a child's health, there are some key differences between the two:

  • Focus: Well-checks focus on overall health; sports physicals focus on sports readiness.
  • Depth: Sports physicals are more targeted, while well-checks are comprehensive.

ARC pediatricians and APCs will review and sign the UIL forms for your child's school district at their well-check exam.

When to book a well-check exam

ARC Pediatrics follow the American Academy of Pediatrics recommendation for annual well-check exams. For school-aged children ages 6-18, summers are a great time to schedule.

Need an appointment after business hours? Some ARC Pediatrics clinics may offer well-check visits in the evenings and on weekends during the summer. Online schedules will show if they are available.

Make an appointment today

You can schedule a well-check exam in the following ways:

  • Book through ARC MyChart if you have proxy access to your child's account.
  • Click BOOK NOW on your doctor's or APC's website bio page.
  • Click BOOK NOW at ARCcheckup.com.
  • Call 512-272-4636 for 24/7 phone scheduling services.

Tags: pediatrics, Well-Check Exam, Sports Physicals