Your child’s physicals may include lab tests. These aren’t always required but some schools want these done. Your doctor can also recommend lab tests if there are signs of unusual symptoms or preexisting conditions. The tests are done to diagnose chronic diseases and illnesses so that they can be more easily managed. Lab tests may include: • Comprehensive metabolic or chemistry screening (these can indicate if there are problems with the immune system, kidneys, liver, blood plasma, and blood chemistry) • Complete blood count • Diabetes screening • Thyroid screening