The back-to-school season is an exciting time for students to explore, learn, and grow. For kids to shine in and out of the classroom, it’s important for them to get the right amount of rest, a nutritious diet, and plenty of positive encouragement. Whether a child is beginning kindergarten or moving up a grade, read on for a few ways that parents, guardians, and caretakers can support a healthy start to the school year.
Well-child Visit
During a well-child visit, a clinician will assess a child’s overall health and well-being—all covered at no cost share for members. This may include screening for healthy hearing and vision, ensuring recommended immunizations are up to date—including the annual flu vaccine, when available—checking for potential developmental delays, and discussing care options for any behavioral health concerns. Well-child visits can be conveniently scheduled through My Health Online, Sutter’s secure patient portal, or by calling a pediatrician’s office.
Recommended immunizations and vaccinations are also available at no cost to members by visiting a network pharmacy, such as CVS, Rite Aid, and Walgreens (call ahead to check availability) or Sutter Walk-in-Care. To learn more about the latest preventive care recommendations for members at any age, view our Health Maintenance Guidelines.
Mental Health Support
Returning to school after the summer break, navigating a different routine, and making new friends can be overwhelming for some children and adolescents—this is normal. However, parents should be on the lookout for ongoing social, emotional, and behavioral issues that could lead to a negative impact on academic performance if left unmanaged, including:
- Intense emotional reactions
- Attention-related issues
- Changes in eating or sleeping patterns
- Withdrawal or depression
- Aggressive behavior
Members of all ages have access to confidential in-person or virtual visits with a participating behavioral health provider through U.S. Behavioral Health Plan, California (USBHPC). When ready, members can explore mental health resources and therapy options by visiting liveandworkwell.com, calling USBHPC at (855) 202-0984, or talking with a clinician.
Same-day Care
Convenient, same-day care is available for members during or after school hours and on weekends through:
- Virtual visits with a Sutter clinician through My Health Online, as available
- Sutter Walk-In Care for common illnesses and health needs
- The 24/7 Nurse Advice Line for immediate information at (855) 836-3500
