WEST DES MOINES, IOWA (July 16, 2025) — Des Moines University Clinic is providing free back-to-school physicals for K-12th graders on Wednesday, July 23, 11AM-7PM, in the Olsen Center at the DMU Clinic, located at 3200 Grand Ave, Des Moines. The last registration will be at 6:45PM. These physicals are designed to help students prepare for the upcoming school year and fall sports.
The event is open to all students, especially those from uninsured and underinsured families. No appointment or insurance is needed, and interpreters and interpretation services will be available. The physicals will be conducted by DMU medical students under the supervision of licensed clinicians, clinic providers, and faculty members. Every participating student will receive a free backpack.
"Getting an annual physical is an important way to protect one's health and detect any health problems early," says Sarah Parrott DO FAAFP, chair and associate professor of primary care and a physician at Des Moines University Clinic — Family Medicine. "Our goal is to make it easy for families to get their children ready for school and fall sports without the added stress of appointments or insurance concerns."
DMU has been offering these free physicals for over ten years, helping more than 150 students annually. "This is also a great chance for DMU students to interact with community members," Parrott adds. "We are proud to offer this service and help ensure that every student has the opportunity to start the school year on the right foot."
For those unable to attend the July 23 event, patients are encouraged to schedule an appointment by calling 515-271-1700 or visiting DMUClinic.org.
