341st MDG offers sports physicals

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MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  It's that time of year again! Along with beautiful weather, comes the need for middle school and high school sports physicals. Historically, the 341st Medical Group has conducted mass sports physical screenings and focused these exams on a few specific dates. Unfortunately, these mass screenings tend to be less
thorough, and subtle medical findings can potentially be missed. In order to provide Malmstrom student athletes with more personalized and individualized care, the Pediatric Clinic will be offering sports physical appointments on Tuesdays and Thursdays beginning June 11. Appointments can be scheduled by calling 731-4MED (4633) or through www.tricareonline.com.

To ensure a smooth and timely process, the 341st MDG asks that the following rules be kept in mind. The key is to schedule physicals early. Frequently, many parents wait until a few days before their paperwork has to be turned in to schedule their appointments. Physicals may be scheduled up to 28 days in advance, depending on availability.

Since each school or camp has different requirements, it is the parents' responsibility to provide the correct forms at the time of the appointment. Parents need to ensure all forms are signed and completed as much as possible prior to their appointment. If vaccines are required, they can be done at the time of the appointment; however, a current shot record will be needed. The Malmstrom Immunization Clinic hours are Monday through Friday from 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. and 1 to 3:30 p.m.

Please note that TRICARE covers annual wellness physical exams required for school enrollment for beneficiaries between the ages of five to 11. However, this benefit does not include physicals that may be required for participation in sports activities. The 341st MDG is offering this additional service as an added benefit for added convenience. It is important Airmen keep their scheduled appointment time. If members book an appointment and don't show or call to cancel it, when they call to reschedule they will be given the next available appointment, which may be another 28 days away. If people cannot wait until their scheduled time, there are urgent care clinics that will perform these physicals. However, sport physicals done off base are an out-of-pocket expense and are not reimbursed by TRICARE.

For more information, contact the Pediatric Clinic by calling 731-4633.