Mercyhealth offers school and sports physicals

Mercyhealth is offering school and sports physicals at times that are more convenient for busy parents and caregivers.

The Mercyhealth Family Medicine Residency Program doctors at Alpine, 7702 N. Alpine, Loves Park, will be conducting the school and sports physicals on Tuesday, June 16, from 5-7 pm; Tuesday, July 21, from 5-7 pm; and Saturday, August 8, from 8 am-noon.

The Mercyhealth Family Medicine Residency Program doctors at Mercyhealth Byron, 130 Kysor Dr., Byron, are offering school and sports physicals on Saturday, July 18, from 8 am-noon, along with fun activities for children and families to enjoy.

School physicals will be billed to insurance. Illinois requires physical exams for students entering preschool, kindergarten, sixth grade and ninth grade. School-required vaccines will also be available during school physical appointments.

Sports physicals will include a sports medicine screening by a resident doctor to help student-athletes prepare for the upcoming season. The cost for the sports physicals is $40. Sports physicals are not billable to insurance. Cash, check or credit card payment is due at time of appointment.

One physical per appointment will be provided for students up to age 18. The health history portion of the child's physical form should be completed before the appointment. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, and should wear shorts, a T-shirt and glasses or contacts.

Parents and caregivers can avoid the last-minute rush and check school and sports physicals off their list. Families also can enjoy kid-friendly activities while preparing for the school year. Appointments fill quickly, so reserving a spot early is encouraged.

For questions about the Loves Park location, call (815) 971-3310. For questions about the Byron location, call (815) 971-3000.