A physical exam is a routine checkup that confirms your child is healthy enough to attend school, play a sport, or head off to summer camp. Schools, sports leagues, and camps in Florida require these exams to protect kids and catch any health issues before they become a problem. The good news for Tampa families is that getting a physical is quick, affordable, and easy to schedule at a local walk-in clinic.
If your child needs a physical before the next school year or sports season, here is what to expect.
What a Physical Exam Covers
A school or sports physical is a head-to-toe checkup that takes about 30 minutes. The provider will measure your child’s height, weight, and blood pressure, and check their vision and hearing. They will also listen to the heart and lungs, look at the eyes, ears, nose, and throat, and check posture, joints, and reflexes.
For sports physicals, the provider pays extra attention to the heart, lungs, and musculoskeletal system to make sure your child can safely handle physical activity. They will also ask about family medical history, past injuries, and any recent illnesses.
If the provider spots a concern, they may recommend a follow-up visit with your child’s primary care doctor before clearing them for sports.
Forms You Need to Bring
Florida has specific forms that must be completed and signed by a licensed provider. Bringing the right blank form to your appointment saves time and prevents a return visit.
- DH 3040 (School Entry Health Exam Form): Required for students entering a Florida school for the first time, including pre-K, kindergarten, and seventh grade.
- DH 680 (Florida Certification of Immunization): Documents your child’s required vaccines for school enrollment.
- FHSAA EL2 Form: Required by the Florida High School Athletic Association for any student-athlete competing in middle or high school sports. It must be completed annually.
Camps and youth sports leagues often have their own forms. Check with the organization in advance and bring whatever paperwork they provided. Many providers will fill out multiple forms in one visit if asked.
Pricing at A+ Family Urgent Care
A+ Family Urgent Care offers transparent self-pay pricing for physicals, with costs ranging from $59 to $139 depending on the type of exam. School and sports physicals are on the lower end of that range, while more detailed exams for college, work, or specialized clearance run a bit higher. Pricing is shared upfront before the visit so there are no surprises.
Most insurance plans cover physicals as part of preventive care, but self-pay is a smart option for families without insurance or for parents who just want to know exactly what they are paying.
Walk-In Availability and Timing
A+ Family Urgent Care is open seven days a week with extended hours, which makes scheduling around work and school much easier. Walk-ins are welcome, and online booking is available if you want to lock in a time before you arrive. The average visit takes about 45 minutes from start to finish.
The busiest time of year for school and sports physicals is late July through early September, so booking ahead during those weeks can help you avoid the longest waits.
What Coaches and Schools Typically Require
Most Hillsborough County schools require a current physical on the DH 3040 form for first-time enrollment. Middle and high school athletes must submit a completed FHSAA EL2 form every year, along with the EL3 consent form. Youth sports organizations, summer camps, and after-school programs usually require something similar, even if the form looks slightly different.
If your child plays more than one sport during the school year, one annual physical typically covers them for the entire season. Camp programs may ask for a more recent exam, so check the dates carefully before your appointment.
Tips for a Smooth Visit
- Bring all required forms with you, completing the parent section yourself before you arrive.
- Write down any medications your child takes, including the dose and how often.
- Note any recent injuries, surgeries, or chronic conditions like asthma or allergies.
- Make sure your child wears clothing that is easy to move in, like shorts and a t-shirt.
A little prep goes a long way and helps the provider give your child a thorough exam.
Get Your Child Ready for the Year Ahead
A physical is one of the easiest ways to keep your child healthy and ready for school, sports, and camp. At A+ Family Urgent Care, the team handles school, sports, and camp physicals every day with fast, affordable service.
To schedule your child’s physical, call A+ Family Urgent Care at (813) 234-0100 or stop by 3345 S. Dale Mabry Hwy in Tampa. Walk-ins and online appointments are both welcome.