Get Ready for School: Join Our Health Department’s Back-to-School Clinics!

ALPENA — Elisa Dack from the District Health Department No. 4 (DHD4) is excited about the upcoming “One Stop” Back to School Clinic. Designed for busy families, these clinics kick off in early August and offer essential health services for school-age children.

Parents can bring their kids for crucial screenings and immunizations all in one visit. “These clinics make it easy for families to get hearing and vision screenings, oral health assessments, fluoride treatments, immunizations, and useful community resources,” Dack says. In Michigan, children must have their hearing and vision checked before starting kindergarten. Dack emphasizes the importance of these screenings, as some hearing issues can go unnoticed without an exam.

Starting with the 2024-2025 school year, Michigan has a new requirement: children entering kindergarten now need a dental screening. This change highlights the increasing focus on oral health for young kids, as they are more prone to cavities because their enamel is still developing.

According to DHD4, students must have their vaccinations up to date by the first day of school. This is particularly important for those entering kindergarten, seventh grade, or moving to a new school district. Dack notes that checking immunization records is essential for a smooth transition into school.

The DHD4 clinic provides services for children ages preschool to 18. This includes free vision and hearing screenings and dental assessments for kindergarteners. Beyond health services, the clinic offers information on how families can access additional resources like doctor referrals, insurance options, and food assistance programs. Many families are unaware of the full spectrum of support offered by local health departments, which can make a significant difference in their lives.

“When I first started, I was surprised by how many services we provide,” said Dack. “I bet many community members don’t know what’s available to them.” The clinics serve as an excellent opportunity for families to learn about the support they can receive.

Clinics are held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the following dates and locations:

• Monday, Aug. 4 at the Alpena DHD4 office (100 Woods Circle, Alpena)
• Thursday, Aug. 7 at the DHD4 Cheboygan office (825 S. Huron St., Cheboygan)
• Friday, Aug. 8 at the DHD4 Montmorency office (12480 State St., Atlanta)
• Friday, Aug. 15 at the DHD4 Presque Isle office (106 E. Huron St., Rogers City)

Recent statistics show that children with regular health screenings have higher rates of academic success. Health professionals recommend early intervention for any health issues to ensure better long-term outcomes. Knowing that, these clinics might not just be about shots and check-ups; they could be a stepping stone to brighter futures for many kids.

For more information about health department services, visit the [Michigan Department of Health & Human Services](https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs).

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