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Health Services

Introduction

The Health Services Department at McKeesport Area School District is responsible for supporting the physical health and well-being of students to ensure they are ready to learn. School nurses and health staff provide care for injuries and illnesses, administer medications, and manage chronic health conditions such as asthma, diabetes, and allergies. The department also maintains student health records and ensures compliance with state requirements for immunizations, screenings, and physical examinations. 

In addition to daily care, the Health Services Department promotes preventive health and wellness across the district. This includes conducting vision, hearing, and other health screenings, as well as educating students and families on healthy practices. The department collaborates with families, healthcare providers, and school staff to create safe and supportive environments, helping to reduce health-related barriers to student success.

Please note: Medication will be given in school only with a written request from a physician.

Important Documents

 

Examinations

Physical and dental examinations are a State requirement in Pennsylvania. If the family so desires, the physical examination may be done by their family physician at the family's expense. The school district provides physical and dental examinations in the following grades:

Physical Examinations

  • 1st, 6th, 11th Grades

Dental Examinations

  • 1st, 3rd, 7th Grades

Immunizations

All school age children (Grades K-12) must have the following immunizations to be admitted to school

  • 4 - D.P.T. (Diphtheria-Whooping Cough-Tetanus)
  • 3 - O.P.V. (Oral Polio Vaccine)
  • 2 - Nine Day Measles Vaccine
  • 2 - Three Day Measles Vaccine
  • 3 - Hepatitis

A second dose of the measles vaccine is now required for all students. Also, a Tuberculin Tine Test must be administered to every child in the first and ninth grade to determine if they have been exposed to tuberculosis. Parents will be notified of any positive findings.

Communicable Diseases

Children who have a communicable disease may not remain in school. The following communicable diseases are subject to exclusion according to state health law:

  • Mumps
  • Chicken Pox
  • Rubella (3-day German)
  • Infectious Hepatitis
  • Scabies
  • Ringworm
  • Measles (9 days)
  • Pink Eye
  • Impetigo
  • Pediculi
  • Pin Worms
  • Strep infections including Scarlet Fever

Screenings

The School Health Program provides individual health checks as follows:

  • Height and Weight: Annually 
  • Vision: Annually
  • Hearing: Kindergarten, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 7th, and 11th Grades
  • Scoliosis: 6th and 7th Grades

Parents will be notified of any health concerns.