The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends a schedule of wellness exam visits for children as soon as they’re 3 to 5 days old. From there, checkups should be scheduled at the following ages:
- 1 month
- 2 months
- 3 months
- 6 months
- 9 months
- 12 months
- 15 months
- 18 months
- 24 months
- 30 months
- 3 to 21 years old, one visit per year.
However, if your child requires specialized care for asthma, vision disorders, or additional conditions, they may need to be seen more frequently.
What is the difference between a wellness exam and a physical?
A wellness exam focuses on preventing and detecting potential health risks in infants, children, and young adults. For example, this may include reviewing a family’s medical history. On the other hand, physical exams help pediatricians identify what’s wrong with a patient and develop a strategy. For example, testing reflexes or listening to the heart and lungs.
What are the benefits of a wellness exam?
A pediatric wellness exam in El Paso is a resource for pediatricians to use as a preventative measure. By collecting your child’s vital signs and developmental data early, doctors can detect underlying medical conditions and keep your child healthy.
How often should a child have a physical exam?
Physical examinations should be performed annually once a child has turned 3 years old. Before that, an infant should be seen every 1 to 3 months.
What happens if a child’s physical needs are not met?
While wellness and physical exams are not required, these visits are crucial to your child’s development. It allows a pediatrician the opportunity to catch and treat potential medical conditions early on and recommend necessary vaccinations to prevent disease.
What if my child is afraid of going to the pediatrician?
At M&C Children’s Clinic, we understand the doctor’s office may not be your child’s favorite place. Our waiting room has flat-screen TVs, playpens, and toys to entertain your child. Additionally, each of our exam rooms also has TVs playing popular movies and children’s TV shows.
