Havre, Montana – Providers at NMHC will be offering Pre-Participation Physicals the weeks of July 9th-20th. The Montana High School Association (MHSA) requires all children who plan on playing a sport to submit the findings of their Pre-Participation Physical yearly; prior to the start of the activity in order to fully participate. A Pre-Participation Physical is valid for one school year period. The MHSA Handbook states that the physical examination must be certified by a licensed medical professional acting within the scope and limitations of his/her practice.
Yearly Pre-Participation Physicals add an extra layer of protection for your child’s physical health. Dr. Karrie Lien, Family Medicine Provider for Northern Montana Family Medical Center states, “Aside from the mandatory ruling from the MHSA, yearly exams are an excellent way to track your child’s growth and meet their preventative health needs. Unless your child has had an illness warranting a visit to see their Primary Care Provider during the year, your child has not been seen by a medical professional for the year. A Pre-Participation Physical can help you find out information about your child and deal with health problems that might interfere with your participation in a sport, as well as any general issues that may be of concern.”
While establishing a good medical history, the healthcare provider doing this exam may ask questions about any previous sports injuries that may pertain to your child’s current ability to participate. By completing the physical approximately six weeks before their sport starts allows for enough time for a follow up visit, if necessary.
Appointments may be scheduled by calling the Family Medical Center at (406) 265-5408. Forms are available at the MHSA website at http://www.mhsa.org/page/show/2287372-miscellaneous-forms. Forms need to be filled out and brought to the appointment.