Policy on Use of the Annual Health and Medical Record

In order to provide better care for its members and to assist them in better understanding their own physical capabilities, the Boy Scouts of America recommends that everyone who participates in a Scouting event have an annual medical evaluation by a certified and licensed health-care provider—a physician (MD or DO), nurse practitioner, or physician assistant. Providing your medical information on this four-part form will help ensure you meet the minimum standards for participation in various activities. Note that unit leaders must always protect the privacy of unit participants by protecting their medical information.

Parts A and B are to be completed at least annually by participants in all Scouting events. This health history, parental/guardian informed consent and hold harmless/release agreement, and talent release statement is to be completed by the participant and parents/guardians.

Part C is the physical exam that is required for participants in any event that exceeds 72 consecutive hours, for all high-adventure base participants, or when the nature of the activity is strenuous and demanding. Service projects or work weekends may fit this description. Part C is to be completed and signed by a certified and licensed health-care provider—physician (MD or DO), nurse practitioner, or physician assistant. It is important to note that the height/weight limits must be strictly adhered to when the event will take the unit more than 30 minutes away from an emergency vehicle, accessible roadway, or when the program requires it, such as backpacking trips, high-adventure activities, and conservation projects in remote areas. 

Part D is required to be reviewed by all participants of a high-adventure program at one of the national high- adventure bases and shared with the examining health-care provider before completing Part C.

The new Annual Health and Medical Record and a comprehensive Frequently Asked Question information sheet can also be found at: http://scouting.org/healthandsafety/resources/medicalformFAQs.aspx (FAQ sheet)

Medication and Limitations on Activities

Scouting is a vigorous program for all boys. Troop 1525 makes every attempt to accommodate any Scout’s limitations.  In order to do this, parents and guardians must provide any limitations or restrictions plus applicable medical information.

The adult leaders of Troop 1525 will not administer any medication, prescription or over the counter medications to a Scout without the written permission of the Scout’s parent. If a parent authorizes a medication to be given to a Scout, the parent must complete a written authorization form and provide the medication in its original container.

It is important for the parents to discuss any unique conditions or limitations affecting their Scout with the Troop SM and the Scout’s assigned Patrol ASM for situational awareness and better understanding should an issue arise.  This should be interpreted in the spirit of caring for your Scout’s unique needs, and not prying into health matters.  It allows proactive supervision of activities that may affect your Scout with his best interest in mind.