Physical/Dental Exams & Health Screenings

Physical/Dental Exams and Health Screenings

To ensure the health and wellness of all school age children, physical/dental exams and regular health screenings are required according to Pennsylvania Public School Code. Physical/Dental exams and mandated screening programs help identify potential health concerns and allow for early detection, referrals, and treatment.

The following is a schedule of exams/screenings required for school-age children:

Physical Exams: Required upon original entry (kindergarten or first grade) sixth grade and 11th grade.  Exams are usually conducted by a family physician. A physical exam form will need to be filled out by the doctor and returned to the School Nurse. If you do not have health insurance, contact your school nurse to arrange for a school physician to conduct the exam. 

Dental Exams: Required upon original entry (kindergarten or first grade), third and seventh grade. Exams are usually conducted by a family dentist. A dental exam form will need to be filled out by the dentist and returned to the School Nurse. If proof of a complete dental exam is not provided to the School Nurse a dental exam will be conducted by the school dentist.

Screenings are completed by School Nurses each school year:

• Growth Screening (height and weight): All grades (K - 12)
• Vision Screenings: All grades (K - 12)
• Hearing Screenings: Grades K, 1, 2, 3, 7, 11
• Scoliosis Screenings (abnormal curvature of the spine): Grades 6 and 7