MinuteClinic offering discount on spring sports, camp physicals

WOONSOCKET, R.I. — With sign-ups for spring sporting events under way, adding physical exams to parents’ to-do lists, MinuteClinic is promoting its sport and camp physicals and is offering them for a discounted price through Sept. 30.

Through Sept. 30, MinuteClinic will offer sports and camp physicals at $49 — $10 off the standard price of $59. Coaches, athletic directors, and team and group leaders can help participants take advantage of an additional $5 discount for teams or groups of 12 or more that register online in advance.

Pre-participation physicals, required by many states, schools and recreation leagues, are administered by MinuteClinic nurse practitioners and physician assistants who specialize in family health care.

"Our clinicians perform a thorough assessment of a child's health that includes a review of medical history, immunizations, height and weight, followed by a physical exam," stated Paulette Thabault, MinuteCinic chief nurse practitioner officer. "We also offer useful recommendations to help parents and children prevent illness or injury during organized sports, such as information on proper hydration and the importance of stretching before and after practice and games."

Once a child is cleared to play, MinuteClinic practitioners stamp any required forms and reference the exam results on the official patient summary. With patient permission, copies of the medical record can be transmitted by electronic record, fax or mail to a primary care provider. Typically this occurs within 24 hours. Sports physicals should not replace an annual wellness visit with a primary care provider, according to Thabault.

In addition to sports physicals, MinuteClinic offers camp, college, administrative and Department of Transportation physicals on a daily basis at most of its CVS/pharmacy locations around the country. Insurance is not accepted for physical exams. Payment is due at the time of the visit and additional lab charges may apply. Requirements for physicals vary by state, and services are not available in Massachusetts.