How Well-Child Visits Support Physical and Mental Health

Well-child visits play an important role in helping children enjoy better overall health by supporting both physical and mental health. These visits allow the pediatrician to monitor them and make recommendations for improving health in certain areas when needed. The experienced providers at Pediatric Specialists of Tulsa in Tulsa, OK, offer well-child visits to help kids enjoy better health throughout childhood and adolescence.

Importance of Well-Child Visits

Well-child visits serve several purposes, from monitoring growth and development to preventing illness and disease. The different components of the visit all help support better physical and mental health for kids. Some of the many ways well-child visits support better health include:

• Tracking major milestones
• Assessment of physical health
• Management of chronic conditions
• Assessment of mental health
• Developmental screenings
• Early intervention for delays or other issues
• Addressing parent or caregiver concerns
• Providing nutrition and exercise guidance
• Vaccinations and immunizations

What to Expect During a Well-Child Visit 

At our pediatric office in Tulsa, OK, a well-child visit includes several components. Your child’s personal and family medical history will be reviewed. This helps identify conditions your child might be at higher risk of developing due to heredity so preventative steps can be taken.

Well-child visits also include a physical examination to assess growth, development, and physical health. Some areas that are checked during this portion of the visit include:

• Height and weight
• Lungs and breathing
• Heart rate and blood pressure
• Eyes, ears, nose, and throat
• Musculoskeletal system
• Vision and hearing
• Reflexes

Another aspect of well-child visits is screening, which helps identify developmental delays and physical or mental health issues. Some screenings are routinely done at certain ages, while others can be performed anytime there are signs of a possible physical or mental health problem.

Depending on your child’s age, the pediatrician will also ask about various topics, such as school, peer relationships, and hobbies or interests. Additionally, the doctor will provide guidance or recommendations regarding nutrition, sleep, physical activity, and other areas. Finally, if your child is due for any immunizations, those will also be administered.

Well-child visits help promote better physical and mental health in several ways. Schedule an appointment with one of our skilled providers for a well-child visit by calling Pediatric Specialists of Tulsa in Tulsa, OK, at (918) 523-5437.