Read the annual school health report and follow up abnormal findings
Schools organize a yearly health check. Pay attention to excess weight, obesity, undernutrition, abnormal spinal curvature, poor vision, and dental decay instead of looking only at height and weight. Follow the recommended specialist assessment promptly within the school year rather than filing the report away.
What it takes
In China's compulsory education system, school operating funds pay for the specified annual examination, without an additional parental charge.
What you may gain
China's 2021 Measures for the Administration of Health Examinations for Primary and Secondary School Students require one annual examination. Physical examination includes the head, neck, chest, spine, limbs, skin, and lymph nodes. Eye checks include external appearance, distance vision, and refraction. Individual reports should provide findings, an overall assessment, and health guidance, with particular attention to overweight, obesity, undernutrition, abnormal spinal curvature, poor vision, and caries. Education authorities should establish records and follow-up for students with health problems. Compulsory-education examination costs come from school operating funds. The national measures were issued in September 2021.
Context & considerations
Evidence is B because this is a service requirement rather than an outcomes trial. It requires annual checks and follow-up but does not ensure that every detected problem is automatically treated. Screening is not a diagnosis. Poor vision needs ophthalmic assessment, including cycloplegic refraction when indicated; see entry 12. Abnormal spinal curvature needs orthopedic or spinal assessment; see entry 2. Parents still need to arrange those visits.
Research & references
National Health Commission and Ministry of Education (2021). Measures for the Administration of Health Examinations for Primary and Secondary School Students, 2021 edition, Guoweiyifa [2021] No. 29. https://www.gov.cn/zhengce/zhengceku/2021-10/21/content_5644100.htm