Immunizations & Annual Physicals Key to Healthy Start to School

CCH offers low- or no-cost immunizations, Logan Square hosts School Physical Day

With the school year starting in just a few weeks, the Cook County Health & Hospitals System is reminding families that it is time to start getting ready for a new year filled with bright starts – and healthy kids. Families will soon be eligible for CountyCare, an Illinois Medicaid health plan offered through CCH, which means preparing students for their back-to-school immunizations and physicals will be more convenient.

“One of the easiest ways to keep your family healthy is making sure students have immunizations and back-to-school physicals,” said Dr. Denise Cunill, CCH’ Interim Ambulatory and Community Health Network Director of Pediatrics. “With a wide network of expert physicians, CCH can help families prepare for a healthy school year – without breaking the bank. As the recent mumps outbreak in the Chicago area proves, it’s more important than ever to make sure children’s immunizations are up-to-date.”

Immunizations range from tetanus shots to chickenpox, mumps and measles vaccinations. In the state of Illinois, school physicals are required for children entering kindergarten, 6th and 9th grades.

With clinics conveniently located across Cook County, physicians can help determine whether children’s shots are current and provide necessary physicals and general wellness examinations. Immunizations are covered for individuals enrolled in Medicaid.

On Wednesday, Aug. 20th the Logan Square Clinic Health Center will host a School Physical Day. The event will run from 8:00 – 3:00 p.m. at the health center, located at 2840 W. Fullerton. To schedule an appointment, please call 773 395-7400. Representatives from the Chicago Public Library will be on hand to sign families up for library cards. There also will be toy raffles and giveaways during the event.

Starting in early September, CountyCare will begin enrolling families, which means services such as immunizations and school physicals will be covered for the health plan’s members. In addition to the CCH network, CountyCare provides access to more than 130 locations throughout Cook County. To learn more and determine eligibility, individuals can call 312-864-8200.

“We are thrilled to offer CountyCare to families,” said Dr. John Jay Shannon, CCH CEO. “Parents, caregivers, children and pregnant women all qualify for CountyCare and the extensive services it covers. A quick phone call will get you on your way to complete health care coverage.”