Back-to-school starts at your doctor’s office

Ready or not, back-to-school season is approaching fast! Getting your family ready to head back to school or daycare this fall starts with getting all the required medical forms from your doctor. Read on to learn how you can submit your paperwork to us and make sure your child has everything they need to get enrolled.

In Buffalo, schools require specific health forms to be completed by a primary care provider before your child can enroll. These forms are mandated by New York State Education Law and are typically required at key milestones like entry into daycare or kindergarten, certain grade levels, or participation in sports. Children who have health conditions like allergies and asthma also need to submit additional forms.

Families in Buffalo have reported facing difficulties with enrolling their children because of missing or incomplete paperwork, which can lead to their child’s enrollment being delayed or denied. Make sure your child can attend school by getting your forms in on time!

To avoid any issues with your paperwork, we recommend you:

• start early: gather the required forms well in advance of enrollment deadlines
• get the details: reach out to the school or daycare center to confirm specific documentation requirements
• get help: if you’re having trouble getting the forms you need, contact your local health department for support
• stay informed: check for any updates or changes to enrollment requirements

Here are the steps you should take to beat the back-to-school rush and get your forms completed with us:

• check with your school or daycare to confirm what forms are required
• call our office at 716.847.2441 (press option 5) to schedule any needed physicals or follow-ups
• submit all forms as soon as possible: processing can take up to two weeks, and turnaround time increases in August
• forms can be dropped off at our front desk or faxed to 716.847.2715

In accordance with our paperwork policy, please allow our office up to 14 days to review and complete paperwork, including school and daycare forms.

When it comes to back-to-school forms, there are some myths and misconceptions: let’s talk about it!

Myth: I don’t need to worry about school and daycare forms until the first day of school

Fact: Many schools and daycare centers require completed health forms like physical exams, immunization records, medical plans well in advance. Submitting them early ensures your child can be enrolled without delay, especially with increased demand in August. It’s important to submit forms well before the school year starts to avoid enrollment delays or exclusions.

Myth: My child’s immunization records are good enough without a physical exam form

Fact: Immunization records are just one part of the required forms. Schools and daycare centers also need complete physical exam forms signed by a primary care provider. These ensure your child’s health is up to date and they’re safe to participate in group activities.

Myth: I don’t need any special forms for my child’s health conditions

Fact: If your child has asthma, allergies, or any medical condition, specific action plans and medication forms are required to ensure proper care while in school or daycare to help staff respond quickly and effectively in emergencies.

Myth: If my child has allergies or asthma, the school already knows

Fact: You must submit an updated action plan and medication authorization form each year or when there are any changes.

Myth: The school or daycare will remind me about missing forms

Fact: While schools and daycares may send reminders, it’s your responsibility to ensure all required forms are submitted.

Need to schedule a pediatric visit ahead of back-to-school? Call us at 716.847.2441 (press option 5) or schedule an appointment online.