In addition to vaccinations , the state requires eye exams .
All children between the ages of three and six who are entering public preschool , Head Start , or public school for the first time must have an eye examination by an optometrist or ophthalmologist no later than January 1 of the school year .
“ If children can ’ t hear or see , they are going to be missing part of the lessons ,” said Mounce , “ and that is the idea behind getting the exams and screenings done so children can all have the equal opportunity to learn and thrive in their environments at school .”
All children are required to receive a dental exam before entering kindergarten .
“ We aren ’ t the best at dental health in Kentucky ,” Mounce said . “ That can cause bigger issues like heart problems and other issues in their body .”
It is important to instill healthy habits into young children at this impressionable age when children are beginning to start school . The required doctor visit requirements for school children creates an opportunity to start the education process learning about the importance of routine health checks . This is something that can influence health outcomes for the rest of a child ’ s life .
According to the official website of the Commonwealth of Kentucky , ky . gov , “ These same requirements also provide exemptions from these immunizations for both medical reasons and religious beliefs .”
Exemptions should be discussed with doctors and parents should follow the recommendations of medical professionals concerning this matter .
Getting children ready for school can be stressful , but Pulaski County offers a wide selection of medical professionals to help get your child ready for school .
“ They can update their shots at their family physician , health department , or our Schoolhouse Health program at Lake Cumberland Medical Associates or the mobile van ,” Mounce said . “ They need to ask for a new certificate with the date given and expiration date to give to their school and keep a copy for their records as well .”
Getting children up to date on state health requirements can be stress-free , but delays can happen in the process if proper documentation is not provided .
“ Sometimes getting proper documentation from quick care clinics like Urgent Care or Fast Pace can slow down the process . Sometimes they do not provide proper documentation ,”
20 • SEKY - Life in Southeast Kentucky august 2022