Medical Certificate
It is almost enrolment time in schools and one of the requirements is a medical certificate.
The issuance of a medical certificate by a Physician carries with it a responsibility and an integrity.
We, Physicians, just do not issue one for the sake of giving a document. This is the very reason that for first time patients who just came for medical certificates, we do complete Physical examination, thorough history taking and laboratories.
We encourage patients to go to their own pediatricians for their medical certificates since their pediatricians know very well their health history.
Usually, Physicians ask for the following data:
– history of vaccinations
– history of hospitalizations
– history of allergies, chronic diseases, acute illnesses like atopic dermatitis, rhinitis, and asthma
– history of surgery
Then, during Physical examinations, we take note of the following:
– the weight for age
– the height for age
– the BMI
– the eyes
– the teeth
– the chest and lungs
– the gait
– signs of scoliosis
– and other related findings
Also, Physicians, ask for the common laboratories:
– complete blood count
– urinalysis
– stool exam
– and chest xrays
Other laboratories are requested if necessary.