142 HAWAII PARENT May/June 2024 Summer days are breezing away, and the start of school is coming closer. For many families, this might mean it’s time to visit a healthcare provider to satisfy school health requirements. “Hawai‘i State Law requires all students to meet physical examination, immunization, and tuberculosis clearance requirements before they may attend a childcare facility, preschool, or public/private school in the State,” explains the Hawaii State Department of Health Disease Outbreak Control Division. What exactly are the health requirements to go to school in Hawaii? First, a physical examination must be completed within one year before the student attends a childcare facility, preschool or school in Hawaii. A physical examination must also be completed within one year before the child attends seventh grade. This physical examination must be performed by a U.S. licensed physician, advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) or physician assistant/associate (PA). Second, immunizations are required for childcare facility and school attendance. “Required immunizations depend on the age of the child (childcare or preschool) or grade of the student. All immunizations must meet minimum age and interval requirements between vaccine doses,” explains the Hawaii Department of Health. “Immunizations will be required for students entering childcare or preschool, kindergarten, 7th grade and post-secondary schools, and all students entering school in Hawaii for the first time, regardless of age,” expands the Hawaii Department of Health. “The updated immunization requirements conform with current national recommendations and reflect what occurs in healthcare provider offices and clinics in Hawaii as standard medical practice.” by Dr. Vinson Diep and Stephanie Lopes
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTcxMjMwNg==