The back-to-school season is full of lists, from school supplies to clothes to lunch box items. There may also be health-related items on your list, particularly if your child is just starting school or will be involved in sports.

First things first—school immunizations

It’s fitting that August is National Immunization Awareness Month, as you’ll want to verify that your child has all of the vaccines that your state and school requires. Take advantage of your Transocean preventive benefits, which provide 100% coverage for well-child medical visits up to age 18. In addition to checking your child’s height and weight, these visits cover a full checkup, including required vaccines and any other wellness-related lab tests or other tests your doctor recommends.  

The vaccines your child needs will vary according to age and state requirements. You can find vaccine recommendations for pre-teens, as well as a full vaccination schedule, on the CDC website. Be sure to get a record of every vaccine dose and keep it in a safe place at home, as it may be requested for other activities over the years. Some states also have online vaccination registries for easy record keeping, and there are a variety of apps and software programs available if you want to keep your own digital records.

Oh say, can they see?

Your child may not be aware they have a vision problem because they have no standard of comparison. That’s why it’s important to have their vision checked when they reach school age and then approximately every two years if no problems are detected. Transocean offers comprehensive vision benefits administered by VSP. You pay only a $15 co-pay for an annual eye exam, and the plan provides an annual allowance for glasses or contacts, if needed.

Of course, if you notice your child straining to see things either close up or from a distance, take them immediately to get their vision checked. A change in classroom performance can also signal a vision problem.

Getting physical

Students who want to participate in school sports will likely need a sports physical, or pre-participation physical evaluation (PPE). The examining physician will ask questions about your child’s physical and mental health, allergies, and any medications they are currently taking, so if you can’t be with your child, be sure to arm them with the necessary information prior to their appointment.

Check these items off your list and get a head start on the school year!