Special Olympics

[quarternote]

Has any one done sports physicals for Special Olympics?

I am in a small town and have been asked to do S.O. physicals for the middle school.

 

My question is how do you all do it. The form is straight forward. I'll try to post a pic of my part.

I had 3 kids today. 6th grade (10-11 yrs). 2 were not our patients and I had no records. One of those 2 was an 11 y.o. Female with Downs, B.P. 149/93, wt 166. Not our patient and I didn't have any medical records. I did not clear her but sent her to her primary care. One has Asperger's, vitals were ok and I put him through a regular sports physical so even though I didn't have medical records I cleared him.

The last one was our patient for years, Downs. One question on the form is if they have had c-spine X-rays, specifically C1 & C2. And if they have atlantoaxial instability. He has not had imaging so I sent him and told mom we will clear if all is ok

This was all last minute, I wasn't forewarned or asked. They appeared on my schedule. This is new for our office as well. I've only been there since Sept. The office staff gave me flack and expected me to just clear the kids. Instead at 5 pm on Friday we were at a standstill with 3 patients while I tried to get in touch with the administrator. I did ask the office manager how I could do this without records and she told me to call the administrator. I was told (by the front desk) they only throw a ball a little and do light activities that I should just sign the form. I won't go into my reply.. From my experience with special Olympics it is truly competitive sports.

My question is how do you all handle these? I was not asked physical exam findings which is what most sports physicals are. I was asked if they have specific medical problems. (See photos) Did I over react?

Thanks for any input--Kim

 

[Guest Paula]

I've done lots of Sports physicals but none of my patients have had Down's Syndrome.  It is always safe and expected that you will not pass a kid if you have any concerns and lack of records.  I would not have passed the kids either without records.  What you were asked to do last minute is typical of an office staff that has no clue about medicine and the special needs of some patients. 

 

BTW...I've had 2 Downs Syndrome young ladies in my water aerobics class and both participate in Special Olympics.  Believe me, they are competitive.