citizensmemorial.com 11 If you have children, it’s important to take them to regular well-child visits. These visits, also called physical exams or checkups, help you understand your child’s growth and development. They also help keep your child healthy and safe. When it comes to choosing a doctor for your child, you have options. Pediatricians are doctors who have specialized training in caring for children. A family doctor can also provide quality well-child visits. These doctors care for patients at all stages of life, from childhood through old age. Why does my child need well-child visits? These checkups offer many advantages. Growth and development. At each visit, the doctor will give your child a physical exam. They will measure your child’s height and weight, listen to their heartbeat and lungs, and perform simple tests to understand how your child is growing and if their development is within a normal range for their age. The doctor will talk about your child’s stages of physical and social development, which are called developmental milestones. Prevention. Your child needs immunizations to protect them against serious illnesses. In addition, you and your doctor will discuss ways to make sure your child is safe at home and at school. Answers to your questions. Well-child visits are an ideal time for you to bring up questions or concerns. Jot down your top questions and bring them with you. Make notes during the visit and review them when you get home. If your child has had major changes in their life, such as a new sibling or a new school, be sure to mention them during the checkup. If your student plans to compete in middle school or high school sports, cheerleading/ spirit squad or marching band next school year, they will need a sports physical before the first practice. Get ahead of the game by asking your provider for a sports physical at their well-child visit. Most insurance plans cover wellness examinations once per calendar year. All sports physical paperwork can be completed during the wellness appointment. Access sports physical resources, including the requirements and evaluation form, from the Missouri State High School Athletics Association at mshsaa.org/sportsmedicine. The importance of well-child visits How often will my child need well-child visits? During the first few years of life, your child grows rapidly and will need frequent checkups. Here are the ages at which your child needs to see their doctor: > To schedule an appointment for your child, call 417-328-6010 or visit citizensmemorial.com. 1 week. 1 month. 2 months. 4 months. 6 months. 9 months. 12 months. 15 months. 18 months. 2 years. 2½ years. Between ages 3 and 21, your child may need an annual wellchild visit. Ask your doctor when they want to see your child next. A winning combo: Well-child visits + sports physicals
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