McChord clinic offers physicals Published Aug. 10, 2007 By Tyler Hemstreet Staff writer MCCHORD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- With the start of the youth sports season just a few weeks away, 62nd Medical Group officials are urging parents to schedule physical exams for their children in order to alleviate the big rush come September. Youth programs usually require children to get a physical exam before signing up, said 1st Lt. Nathan Fosmore, 62nd Medical Operations Squadron. Physical exams are good for two years, he said. Since the majority of older children and adolescents are pretty healthy, doctors don't get very many chances to see them and check on their health, growth and development, said Maj. (Dr.) Jason Gerber, 62nd MDOS. "A physical exam gives us an opportunity to check in with the patients and their parents to see how things are going," Dr. Gerber said. "It gives us an opportunity to discuss important health topics and safety issues." Parents are encouraged to bring their child's sports paperwork with them to the appointment, Lieutenant Fosmore said. The exam also offers parents the chance to ask any questions about their child's health and check to see that any immunizations are up to date, Dr. Gerber said. The exam only takes a few minutes and is completely painless, he said. "It's just a quick look at everything from head to toe to make sure the patient is growing appropriately," Dr. Gerber said. To schedule an appointment for a physical exam at the 62nd MDG clinic, visit http://www.tricareonline.com or call (800) 404-4506.