There are numerous school-related medical costs that arise each September, many of which most employees don't realize can be offset with proper planning—and a Health Savings Account (HSA). (Photo: Shutterstock)

Back-to-school time is in the forefront of our employees' minds. How can we, as their benefits providers, help them prepare for these expenses? There are numerous school-related medical costs that arise each September, many of which most employees don't realize can be offset with proper planning—and a Health Savings Account (HSA).  It's time to get our staff financially ready for the medical exams, school physicals, nurse supply kits and home essentials that come with a new school year.

HSAs are an employee benefit that allow for pre-tax dollars to be used to pay for eligible medical expenses. These accounts can help save significant amounts of money. Here is a list of all the back-to-school items that fit within the eligibility criteria for HSAs.

School physicals, medical exams and health forms — Often, schools require a physician form to be completed at the start of each year. These could be called admission documentation, sports physicals, physician health statements, yearly physicals or other terms.