You’re scrambling to get out the door to drive your daughter to dance class and get your son over to a friend’s house when the notification pops up on your phone: Your child’s annual well visit is quickly approaching.
Why well checks are important
These routine doctor’s appointments can easily get lost in the shuffle of our busy daily schedules, but Sherwat Abdelrahman, MD, a pediatrician with Baptist Primary Care, stresses that caregivers should absolutely make annual pediatrician visits a priority.
“Well visits are the epitome of preventive medicine,” says Dr. Abdelrahman. “This is your chance to convey your concerns and make sure your child is developing on track. We check your child’s growth, get him or her up to date on immunizations, and monitor overall well-being. Don’t miss out!”
Your pediatrician prep checklist
Depending on age, these well visits for our children typically only come once a year, which is why it matters all the more to make the most of your time with the doctor. Here are four simple suggestions to help you feel well-prepared:
1. Write down any questions you have. Make a note in your phone or write down any concerns you have about your child’s health, including any questions or issues you may want to discuss when you see the pediatrician. This way, you won’t forget anything!
2. Get paperwork together, including any needed documents for daycare or school. If the appointment is your family’s first visit to this particular doctor’s office, don’t forget to secure any necessary records from the previous provider. This will give your new physician a clear picture of your child’s entire health history. Also, make sure to request any health forms that may be required for daycare or school beforehand to alleviate an extra trip.
3. Take into account your child’s health beyond the physical aspect. These vital well visits can serve as more than merely an opportunity to discuss physical growth and development. The annual check-ins with a doctor also serve as a safe space to bring up any potential behavioral issues or cognitive concerns you have about your child.
4. Download the digital patient portal or smartphone app. Apps such as My Baptist Chart can help you keep track of appointments for everyone in your family and also allows you to exchange messages with providers between visits, should any questions or concerns arise. Another bonus for busy moms and dads who don’t want to be blindsided: You’ll receive reminders to schedule preventative care appointments and also get notifications when the visit is approaching.
Care for the whole family
Together, Baptist Health and Wolfson Children’s Hospital provide a wide range of care for children of all ages. If it’s time to schedule an annual well check for your child or for yourself, Baptist Primary Care has physicians for the entire family. To find the right one for you, call 904.202.4YOU or fill out the appointment request form.
