Sports Physicals: A Smart Step for Your Child’s Health and School Success
7/11/2025
Now available at Laredo CareClinic locations
As the new school year approaches, one of the most important items on a parent’s checklist should be a sports physical exam—an essential step not only for school participation but for a child’s overall health and development.
Laredo CareClinic is now offering sports physical exams for school-age children, and parents are encouraged to schedule early to avoid the back-to-school rush.
“Between shopping for school supplies and organizing new routines, we know this season is hectic for families,” says Alberto Galvan, APRN, MSN, FNP-C, certified family nurse practitioner at Laredo CareClinic. “But taking the time to schedule a sports physical can have lasting benefits for your child’s health.”
While sports physicals are often required for student athletes, cheerleaders, band members, and other extracurricular participants, Galvan emphasizes that every child can benefit from an annual physical exam—regardless of their involvement in school activities.
“Annual checkups help detect potential health concerns early, before they become more serious,” Galvan explains. “For instance, many students struggle in class simply because of undiagnosed vision issues. A routine exam can catch these problems early and make a big difference in learning.”
In addition to identifying vision and other health concerns, physical exams give parents a better understanding of their child’s medical history—an important asset in the event of a medical emergency.
“If your child ever needs emergency care, having a complete health history on file can help physicians make faster, better-informed decisions,” says Galvan.
Parents should bring their child’s physical form with the health history section completed and signed. For those who don’t have the form, they can obtain it at the clinic.
In addition, students should bring their prescribed eye glasses or contact lenses, and, if applicable, a clearance letter from their doctor for patients with heart problems, surgeries or fractures within the past year.
Laredo CareClinic offers Sports Physicals for just $25, and TB testing for $21. The clinics are located at 10201 McPherson, Suite 300 (across from United Day School) and 4415 U.S. Highway 83, Unit 100. Both clinics are open Monday–Friday, 9 a.m. – 9 p.m., and Saturday–Sunday, 9 a.m.–7 p.m.
Appointments are recommended, but walk-ins are welcome on a first-come, first-served basis. To schedule an appointment, call (956) 795-1160 (north) or (956) 724-5525 (south).
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