Physician Assistant Questions

Are physicals needed to prescribe OTC medicine?

I'm a high school student who is going on a school trip which has required the physician to fill out a medical administration form in case I want to take (over the counter) OTC medicine for a headche, cold, etc like Tylenol. Anyway, she says she need to do a physical first - even though I did one last month - she is saying that's a sport physical and wants another $200 for a regular physical just to fill out the form. The form doesn't say anything about a physical either... Is the physical necessary to fill the form out to take OTC medication on the trip? Or is she just being a corrupt doctor who is after money... all she does is take physicals and doesn't seem to know anything else!!

Female | 14 years old

6 Answers

You need to find a new doctor and report her to the state. If you have health insurance physicals are covered once a year depending on the insurance you have. If she did one a month ago then all she has to do is fill the form out for you.
OTC medication does not require a physical or a prescription.
Good morning.
Normally when medications need to be taken at school or a school function, a doctor's note is required to direct the nurse that the medication(s) is/are medically necessary for the patient/student. It will depend on what the school requires for that direction. Physicians are highly trained experts in the field of medicine who have years of training and specialization. My practice is focused on integrated healthcare, so I am not sure what may be required by the high school.
No not for OTC
Yes, having a physical is important for maintaining good health. A physical exam once a year allows your medical provider key insights to your overall health by screening for potential medical conditions, and detecting any early signs of disease. It also gives you the chance to have your concerns addressed or if you have any questions, you can receive appropriate guidance and recommendations. Regular physicals can help prevent or manage chronic conditions, monitor vital signs, and ensure that you are up to date on necessary vaccinations or screenings. Usually, once you have had a yearly physical, most providers will fill out forms for school sports programs, or other minor forms based off of your annual physical for that year as a courtesy to their patients. When forms are several pages in length or have an additional requirement, you may be asked to come in for if you were not assessed for that specific need such as a urine test, or a vision test.

I hope this helps.
A sport physical and general physical exam are basically the same. I would recommend to check out an urgent care center. Everybody has different prices. State specifically for the case what you need.