Get Ready for Sports Season: Free Physicals and Immunizations for Students Offered by Access Health Louisiana – St. Charles Herald Guide

Access Health Louisiana (AHL) is hosting a mobile sports physical and immunization event for students in the St. Charles Parish Public School district, running until the end of May. This initiative aims to help busy parents who find it difficult to take their kids for physical exams or vaccinations.

Chenier Reynolds-Montz, AHL’s senior vice president, emphasizes the importance of this program. “This is a convenient option for parents who can’t leave work,” she noted.

Parents are encouraged to contact AHL’s school-based health centers to learn when the mobile unit will visit their child’s school this spring. It’s essential to fill out a simple consent form for kids to receive free immunizations or sports physicals. Additionally, a specific release form from the Louisiana High School Athletic Association (LHSAA) is needed for sports physicals.

Reynolds-Montz expressed pride in bringing these services to local students. “We aim to collaborate with school districts to keep children healthy, ensuring they can reach their academic potential,” she explained.

Beyond the mobile clinics, free physicals are also available at AHL’s school-based health centers, located in various schools like Albert Cammon Middle and Destrehan High. These centers offer medical and behavioral health services at no cost, regardless of insurance status.

To utilize these services, parents must fill out a consent form. This can easily be done online or by calling the health centers to request a form via email. For students in schools without on-site health centers, appointments can still be made through the existing facilities.

Reynolds-Montz highlighted the unique approach taken by AHL’s staff. Their team includes advanced practice nurse practitioners, social workers, and counselors who work closely with school nurses and counselors. “They provide quality care to students while they are in their learning environment,” she added.

Many staff members are from the St. Charles area, making their work personal. “Our team loves making a positive impact on the community,” Reynolds-Montz said.

AHL also manages community health centers in Norco and Luling. The Luling clinic houses a pharmacy offering affordable medications and home delivery for residents. Families in need can access various services, including medical, behavioral health, and dental care, through in-person or telehealth appointments.

It’s essential to recognize the significance of local healthcare initiatives like this. According to recent statistics from the CDC, vaccination coverage among children aged 19-35 months is at about 70% in some regions, highlighting the need for convenience in accessing these services.

Local reactions have been overwhelmingly positive, with parents expressing gratitude for the flexibility and availability of healthcare services, especially in a busy school year. Social media trends reflect a growing appreciation for health initiatives that support community well-being.

For further information on Access Health Louisiana’s programs, parents can visit AHL’s website for resources and updates.

In summary, AHL’s efforts not only help ensure that students are physically ready to participate in sports and school activities but also enhance overall health in the community, fostering a healthier generation for the future.

Check out this related article: New York Faces $360 Million Drain on Public Health Due to Federal Cuts, Warns Governor Hochul