Back to School Health Insurance Checklist

Heading Back to School? Don’t Forget the Health Insurance Checklist

As you get your child (or grandchild) ready for the new school year, use this simple checklist to help ensure a smooth, healthy start to the year:

1. Schedule Required Physicals

• School Physicals: Many schools require an annual physical to enroll or return.
   
• Sports Physicals: If your child is joining a sports team, a pre-participation physical may be required.
   
• Well-Child Visit: Even if not required, an annual checkup helps track growth and development.
   

Tip: Check with your child’s school for specific physical exam requirements and deadlines.

2. Review and Update Vaccinations

• Confirm your child is up to date on CDC-recommended vaccines, including:
   
• DTaP, MMR, Polio, Hepatitis A/B
   
• Tdap (for preteens/teens)
   
• Meningococcal
   
• HPV
   
• COVID-19 (as recommended by your doctor)
   
• Ask your pediatrician for a Certificate of Immunization for school records.
   

3. Confirm Your Health Insurance Coverage

• Coverage for Physicals & Vaccines: Check if school and sports physicals are covered annually.
   
• Urgent Care/After-Hours Clinics: Know your nearest in-network options for unexpected illnesses or injuries.
   

4. Get Updated Prescriptions and Prescription Authorizations

• If your child takes medications during school hours (e.g., for asthma, ADHD, diabetes), update prescriptions and make arrangements with the school nurse.
   
• Ensure you have:
   
• Enough refills
   
• Updated emergency action plans
   
• Required authorization forms for the school
   

5.Schedule Vision and Dental Exams

• Vision screening is essential before school starts, especially for younger students.
   
• Schedule a dental checkup if your insurance covers one every six months or annually.
   

7. Update Emergency Contacts and Insurance Info

• Provide the school with:
   
• Your current health insurance provider and policy number
   
• Your updated contact info
   
• Emergency contact details
   

8. Know Your Plan’s Telehealth Options

• Many plans now offer virtual visits, which are great for non-emergency care or mental health support.
   
• Download your insurer’s Telehealth app or bookmark the access page.
   

9. Talk to Your Child About Health & Wellness

• Help them understand when to ask for help, how to manage minor symptoms, and the importance of handwashing, hydration, and sleep.