As resolutions are being made for the new year, one small effort with invaluable benefits is to schedule regular preventative health care appointments and screenings for you and your family.
We’ve rounded up recommended appointment and screening schedules for everyone in your life.
Infants & Toddlers
There is no other time in life more important than the first two years of life.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends infants are seen by a pediatrician at birth, 1 week after birth, and at 1, 2, 4, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18 and 24 months.
These appointments allow the pediatrician to regularly check growth and development markers and provide life-saving immunizations.
Children
Well-child visits are regularly scheduled preventative care appointments that allow you an opportunity to talk with a pediatrician regarding your child’s health and any concerns.
The appointments enable the pediatrician to track your child’s growth and development and stay up-to-date on immunizations.
2 years (24 months), 2 ½ years, and then once a year from ages 3-21.
Women
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends females begin scheduling an annual well-woman visit with an OB/GYN between the ages of 13-15 and continue this preventative care appointment through their adult life.
This yearly checkup is to monitor your health and well-being and your OB/GYN will tailor your appointment to the stage of life you are in.
Men
Men can often think they don’t need to go to a doctor unless they are sick. But encouraging the men in your life to schedule a regular appointment with a primary care physician can help them establish healthy routines, prevent illness, and catch any serious health concerns early.
A primary care provider will evaluate physical and mental health, ensure immunizations are up-to-date, and take a family history to determine if specific screenings need to be started early.
An annual appointment with a primary care provider can also provide you with an opportunity to check on your mental and physical well-being and ensure immunizations and screenings are current.
